UPLIFT Encouragement Group
Kentucky native Scheri Force was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in the late 1990’s. Refusing to succumb to a life of limitation or restriction, she has worked diligently toward an abundant and full life. “I have MS, but it does not have me,” she explains. “I don’t focus on what I have lost, but on what I can still do!” As she researched different ways to make a positive path in the world with MS for herself, Scheri realized that she was in a very unique position to be a source of encouragement and knowledge for others. After her move to Lexington County in 2005, her passion sparked the birth of the UPLIFT Encouragement Group (UPLIFT) in 2017. Through the efforts, advocacy, support, and contributions of this non-profit (501c) entity, not one person will be isolated, rejected, or neglected due to a chronic illness or mental, physical, or emotional disability.
One of the most important services that UPLIFT strives to provide is the successful integration of disabled or chronically ill people into their communities. By facilitating and distributing resources and accommodations, UPLIFT invokes a sense of belonging, responsibility, satisfaction, independence, confidence, and productivity within each individual. “It’s nice to take our minds off of our illness/disability to help others,” Scheri remarks. “We are building communities that empower, empathize, and ENCOURAGE others.”
UPLIFT members and their caregivers enjoy interacting with people who understand the scope of what they are going through. This results in huge benefits from deep interaction, acceptance, and safe, direct communication. “The importance of people living with chronic illnesses or disabilities is to be together…it is critical,” Scheri says. “When you have a chronic illness/disability, you already feel isolated, like a burden, etc. But meeting with others who are alike can make all the difference in the world to your mental and physical being.”
Discussing the various aspects of living and coping with an illness or disability in a sincere, non-judgmental space can be empowering and motivating. UPLIFT Meetings are held every month on the 4th Thursday from 6-8pm in the Fellowship Hall of First Baptist Church Lexington, 415 Barr Road. There are numerous opportunities to share information, experiences, challenges, and triumphs within a family-like atmosphere with an open invitation to laugh, cry, and bond. Visionary leaders and speakers explain and address issues that are relevant to the group, expanding member education and caregiver skills. Of course, there are multiple opportunities to participate in social events, fun activities, and community projects designed specifically for people who live with chronic illness or any sort of disability. The goal is for every UPLIFT member to become a positive, valuable, and productive resource as they ENCOURAGE others along their path.
UPLIFTEncouragement.com
803-318-4103
