A Survivor's Story

I’M Magazine

I’M Inspirational Moments

Magazine Stories that Inspire

I Would Have

Fainted…

Marsha Gardner

Oliver never looked

back. Compromise

was not an option.

A

Survivor’s Story

Real Stories- These are the real

stories of everyday

people. May you

find inspiration in

these stories

Events that

Inspire

Find events that

will inspire you

“Write the vision, and make it plain...that he may run that read it”

May-July 2010

When breast can-

cer called,

Mechelle an-

swered with a

loud “NO”!

To Order Call: 404.667.6812

Page 2

Dear Reader,

This publication is our first addition of Inspi-

rational Moments Magazine. I dedicate this issue to

my friend Mechelle Spencer Davis who passed away

this year. She has also received dedications from

her Girl Scout Troop; who passed out health bars

with pink covers to encourage their church members

to get mammograms, Nova Middle School of Fort

Lauderedale, Florida ; who dedicated their 2009-

2010 year book to her and is planting a tree in her

honor, and there are still several more dedications to

come.

There have been many who have inspired me

in my life. My first inspiration is my Lord and Sav-

ior Jesus Christ. He inspired me to look at the big

picture when making decisions and to live a sacrifi-

cial life. My next inspiration is the Holy Spirit who

gave me the vision to do this magazine. Also, my

daddy, Grant Toliver inspired me to make the best of

life when he was left to continue raising me after

the passing of my mother when I was fourteen years

old. Another inspiration came from my late former

pastor, Pastor Molly Stubbs, who inspired me to dis-

cover my passion of helping others and by faith step

out and use my passion; in addition, my current Co-

Pastor, Prophetess Debbie Armstrong, of Atlanta,

Georgia, who inspired me to hold on to my God

given dreams and visions and wait for them to come

to pass regardless of the trials. Finally, there are the

people and events that are written about in this issue

and others to come. I find inspiration in all of them.

My desire is for you to do the same. Read on an be

inspired!

Jennifer M. Hudson

Publisher

Staff

Editor Sabrina Smith

Publisher Jennifer M. Hudson

Senior Writer JT. Hud

Contributing Writers Marsha Oliver

Michael Maddox

Graphic Designer JT Hud

Hands on Design

Phone: 404.667.6812

E-mail:

[email protected]

Web Address: www.comegetinspired.com

P.O.Box 366092

Atlanta, Georgia 30336

I’M Magazine

On the Cover

Tony and Mechelle Davis

I’M Magazine

Page 3

TAB

LE

OF

CO

NTE

NTS

A Survivor’s Story (Feature Story) Page 4

Next Issue’s Feature Story Page 6

Events that Will Inspire You!!! Page 7

I Would Have Fainted Unless Page 7

I Believed

Inspiring Advice Page 8

Sweet 16 Page 8

Who’s Been Inspired Page 9


Page 4

A Survivor’s Story

Mechele Spencer Davis’ Story

Mechele Spencer Davis had a bout with cancer... and won!

No, she didn’t live through the cancer, but she did survive while she

lived. When Mechele found out she had breast cancer she set out on

a quest to be a survivor. When most people think of a cancer survi-

vor they picture someone who is still living after their diagnosis and

does not pass away in death. This was Mechele’s intent when she

waged war against the demon of breast cancer. Unlike many, she put her trust and future in the

hands of her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, no matter the outcome. She never planned for her

life to end; instead, she planned to continue her life as a breast cancer survivor who enhanced

the lives of others.

A mother of two (Nechelle and Ali Malik Davis) and a devoted wife to Tony “T-Tone”

“Knock-Knock” Davis, Michelle has a story to tell that will inspire you. First diagnosed June

2008 with what she was initially told was breast cancer in an early stage. Whereas many people

in her situation would fret and concentrate on dying, Mechelle immediately called for prayer

from her family and friends. Very selflessly, she participated in “A Randomized Phase II Bio-

maker Neoadjuvant Study of Sequential AC” follow by “Pacilaxel in Women with Early Stage

Breast Cancer”, to help future breast cancer patients; knowing that it probably would not physi-

cally benefit her. Mechelle wanted to give someone else a fighting chance through the research

that resulted from the study.

After receiving her treatments, her tumor shrank by 35%. She thanked God her Jehovah

Rophi (healer) and those who prayed for her, continued her work as a church youth leader, Girl

Scout troop leader, middle school teacher, cheerleading coach, active member of Alpha Kappa

Alpha Sorority Incorporated, daughter, sister, mother, wife and friend. An inspiration to all,

Mechelle never played the role of a victim; instead, she and a cousin began a monthly confer-

ence call with their family, which still takes place today, which offers encouragement, words of

wisdom, inspirational songs and prayer.

When the tumor began to grow again; shortly thereafter, she was informed that it had

developed into stage 3 Triple Negative Cancer; a much more aggressive type of cancer. Heroi-

cally she looked her cancer right in the face, and with her faith, s/HE attached it! She continued

to work and stayed committed to all of the organizations and activities that she had always been

apart of. Eventually, aggressive treatment began, and surgery followed which involved a dou-

ble mycepotomy with a plan for reconstructive surgery. Each time it swung at her, she fought

back. A ray of sunshine, when she went to get treatments, everyone brighten up who was there,

including the medical staff. After leaving her treatments, she remained full of energy. Instead

of going home to rest like most patients, she would often go out to dinner; a survivor’s attitude

was all anyone saw!

By JT Hud

FEATURE STORY

I’M Magazine

A Survivor’s Story cont.

In the midst of it all she took a group of eigth graders to New York and her Girl

Scout troop to the Nickelodeon Hotel (Memorial weekend 2009). With continued support

from her entire family, including her parents, brother and grandmother as well as close

friends, never did she express the grim prognosis that she had been given. Continuing to

celebrate life to its fullest, a close friend and she even took a trip to Las Vegas, Nevada.

So when she developed a cough that landed her on oxygen and soon after

hospitalized, it took her friends and family by surprise. No one thought it would get to this

point, for she had been winning the war until this point. By this time the cancer had spread

to her heart and lungs. Although this invasion of her body caused her much discomfort

when she talked, she still persisted in being the victor; she began texting friends and family

instead of talking. During this time, Mechelle never disclosed to most of her family and

freinds just how ailing she really was. It wasn’t until the doctor called in the family to

discuss her condition that her prognosis was truly divulged. By now she was heavily

sedated and sometimes nonresponsive; no one could believe that she was slipping away, but

once again, that did not stop Mechelle. Once more, being the epitome of a selfless person,

she checked on her children and asked about other family and her friends while in the midst

of her affliction. She held on to her faith in God. On January 29, 2010 the Lord did not fail

her, but instead He made her the victor in so many ways when He called Mechelle Spencer

Davis home; her life here on earth ended, but her legacy of love and encouragement lives

on.

At her homegoing service many people were reunited and old friendships rekindled

as hundreds of people came from far and near to pay their respects for her life. She touched

lives from the Area Superintendent of her school district to young students who attended

Vacation Bible School at her church. It was truly amazing to see people of all walks of life

gathered together to honor such a remarkable women, each one with their own story of how

Mechelle “selflessly” impacted their lives through her faith, her fortitude and her victory.

In and through each of them, Mechelle will live on. Mechelle, you are truly a survivor!

Page 5

Next Issue’s Feature Story Michael Maddox

He is taking the world by storm. In his own words Michael writes, “I am a world-

wide fashion show producer and top runway instructor. I've been producing fash-

ion shows and training girls/guys for over 20 years. And by the grace of God, I

love my work. He gave me the talent to be me…”. Michael is full of encourage-

ment and inspiration for others. Check him out on Face Book. He has over 5, 000

fans. You don’t want to miss this story. You will be amazed by the size of his

heart.

Page 6

Inspirational Moments Event Planning 404.667.6812

We plan conferences, small concerts, and special events in addition to serving as a resource to help

you find venues, speakers and other goods and services for events.

www.comegetinspired.com


Two Frogs

Two frogs fell into a can of cream, (or so it has

been told).

The sides of the can were shiny and steep, the

cream was deep and cold. “Oh, what’s the

use?” said Number one, “It’s plain no help’s

around.” “Good-bye, my friend. Good bye,

cruel world.”

And weeping still, he drowned.

But Number Two, of sterner stuff, dog-paddles

in surprise,

And as he licked his creamy lips and blinked his

creamy eyes,

“I’ll swim at least a while” he thought (or so it

has been said),

“It really couldn’t help the world if one more

frog were dead.”

An hour or more he kicked and swam, not once

did he stop to mutter,

Then hopped our from the island he made of

fresh, churned butter.

Author Unknown

Page 7

I found strength and confidence in and

for my own. I currently still perform

exemplary work for this

employer (although in a

another capacity) while

serving as President &

CEO of O. Communica-

tions, LLC, a Jacksonville

-based marketing and pub-

lic relations firm. No

apologies, no regrets, no

excuses! What an amazing journey and

gift life has become for me, my son, and

my God. Live your best life now!

I Would Have Fainted Unless

I Believed By Marsha Gardner Oliver

My life really began in 2007 when I was

abruptly removed from my senior level posi-

tion of eight years after re-

fusing to acquiesce to an

unethical and immoral re-

quest from a boss (despite

exemplary performance). It

was then that I discovered

and vowed - at age 38 - that

no individual, position, fear

or guilty pleasure would

ever misconstrue or seek to own me. I gave

up the need to be validated by others' stan-

dards or accepted by elite groups.

Events that Will Inspire You!!

Dave Ramsey’s Financial Pease University (FPU)

Find one near you online at daveramsy.com

Gathering for the Awakening– Daytona Beach, Fl

Find out more at bearingoilministries.com

New Beginnings Life Coaching

Small group Life Coaching for Christian Women. Each group consist of no more than 8 women. Each group is based on a

common interest of the women. Ex: relocation

Groups lead by Jennifer M. Hudson

Cost: $365 per year

Email [email protected]

for more information

I’M Magazine


Page 8

Sweet 16

Not Your Ordinary 16 Year Old

Dahrya Brinson turned 16 in March. She had a “Sweet Sixteen” party that looked like a typi-

cal 16 year old’s party but her party was special. You see, Dahrya was born with a chromoso-

mal abnormality called Trans-Located Chromosome which is similar to Trisomy 13, but that is

not a deterrent for her. She is a cheerleader, sings in the youth choir at church, praise dances

and loves her friends and family. When putting together her guest list for her extravaganza,

she was most concerned that family and friends (regardless of their age) be there. She re-

quested the latest teenage crazed music along with a gospel twist.

She arrived in a limo accompanied by close friends, her little sister Shyra, her mother, grand-

mother and cousin Kourtnae. She entered the party like a princes and danced the night away.

She even performed a praise dance.

Both Dahrya’s parents Darrell Binson and Samarah Brinson helped to make this event possi-

ble. The party was held at the Show Room at Dave and Busters in Duluth, Georgia and was

planned by a professional party planner. Everyone one young and aged thoroughly enjoyed

themselves. It was truly a night to remember for a young lady who is both beautiful inside and

out. What an inspiration she is.

When the night was over and Dahrya returned home, she took her hair down and returned to

being her everyday self. What an inspiration she is for her little sister, who also has Trans-

Located Chromosome. She shows her that she can truly enjoy life no matter what label you

are born with.

By JT Hud

Shyra, Dahrya and Kourtnae

Dahrya Dahrya

Page 9

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Flat Panel TV’s, IPods, IPhones and Much More!

Fight For A Cure

Support Group Meeting

Lupus can have a devastating affect on the life of

those living with the disease. There are many pa-

tients effected by lupus who are afraid, looking

for answers, longing for help and understanding

of the disease that affects their lives so drasti-

cally. We at Lupus Butterflies of Hope, Inc. are

all too familiar with your plight and want to help

those affected by lupus to cope with their anxie-

ties, fears and confusion that comes with living

with such a

complicated and chronic illness.

If you are tired of feeling lost, with no where to

turn, feeling alone in your fight against lupus; if

you are a family member who would like more

information on how to help your loved one cope

and deal with their battle against lupus, please

join us for our support group meetings held at

the South Fulton Atlanta Public Library.

For more information please call

(770) 361—8716

South Fulton Public Library

4055 Flat Shoals Road

Union City, GA 30291

May 1, 2010 - 1:00 P.M.

May 29, 2010 - 1:00 P.M.

June 12, 2010 - 1:00 P.M.

www.twayelupusfoundation.org

I’M Magazine


Page 10

Inspiring Advice

When You Can’t Find It, Create It

Willie Adams of Fort Lauderdale, Florida advises friends to create the things that they have

been looking for in others but have not found them. He once advised this to a friend and the

friend wrote their own journal after not finding a journal that met their needs.

When Wishing Won’t, Working Will

Bruce Pinkston of Fenestration Systems in Miami Beach, Florida believes in working hard to

get what you want. He constantly advises others to work hard to achieve their goals. Bruce

also takes his own advise. He worked his way from glass glazer to CEO of his own glass com-

pany.

Atmosphere or Your Fear?

If you have not starting living your dream ask yourself what is holding you back. Is it the at-

mosphere or your own fear? If it is the atmosphere, change your crowd. If it is your fear,

change your mind!!!

We’d Like to Hear From You!

Tell us about a story that is inspirational. Once we verify it, you may see it in

an issues of our magazine.

Tell us if you are inspired by the articles.

Tell us what you think of the magazine,

Send emails to [email protected] or write us at

Inspirational Moments Magazine, P.O. Box 366092, Atlanta, Georgia 30336.

Excerpts from

Our Deepest Fear By Marianne Williamson

Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate.

Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure.

It is our light, not our darkness

That most frightens us.

We are all meant to shine,

As children do.

We were born to make manifest

The glory of God that is within us.

I’M Magazine

Page 11

Who’s Been Inspired

Your Inspiration

In the future this session will highlight

stories from our reader who found

inspiration in one of our articles.

Professional Serves That

Will…

Cater to You Michele Toliver

Management Con-

sultant

[email protected]

386.299.8202

Services Include:

All Microsoft Applications

Publications

Marketing

Public Relations

And much more!

Very Competitive Rates

Hands-On Design

Custom Designed:

Business Cards, Flyers, Logos, Letter Head, Pro-

grams, Invitations & More

770-846-6228

[email protected]

Phone: 404.667.6812

E-mail:

[email protected]

P.O.Box 366092

Atlanta, Georgia 30336

I’M Magazine

Prepared by MagCloud for Jennifer M. Hudson. Get more at inspirationalmoments.magcloud.com.

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A Survivor's Story