Trauma to Triumph-my Birthday Month

First and foremost thank you for reading this. It means more than words can say and that’s a lot coming from a

writer!

A word on Gifts:

‘The greatest gift anyone ever gave me is ASKING what I NEED’ -

Lilac Cooper

A safe space. A return to writing. A gift of care. How you can help me.

Hi friends,

This year, for my birthday month, I’m asking for something that supports my wellness in trauma recovery—a return to a space that helps me feel grounded, creative, and safe in my body.

Two years ago, I attended a writing workshop at the Omega Institute that left a lasting impact. It helped me breathe again, reconnect with my voice, and remember that healing is possible through creativity. I’ve wanted to return ever since.

This June, that same workshop with poet John Roedel is being offered again—right at a EXACT time when I’ll need a lot of extra care. A CLOSE FAMILY WEDDING is happening, but for personal and health reasons, I won’t be attending. While that gut wrenching choice feels right for me, it also brings a lot of emotional complexity. What I need most during that time is a peaceful, supportive space where I can feel safe, write, and not be alone in the intensity of it all.

Omega is that space. It offers the quiet refuge I need, along with the soul-nourishing magic of writing in community.

Because of my medical needs and immune challenges, I’ll need to stay on the Omega grounds in a private room with a bathroom. That makes the cost higher, and I’m hoping to raise about $3,500 to cover:

• Workshop tuition

• On-site lodging with private bath

• Travel expenses

Ongoing atypical medical needs (not covered by insurance)

ETC

If you feel moved to support this birthday wish—by contributing, sharing, or simply holding it in your heart—it would mean so much to me.

Any extra funds will go toward ongoing medical needs.

Ways to give:

• Donate here through GoFundMe (note: small fees apply)

• Or give fee-free via:

• Venmo: @LeoraLilac-Cooper

• PayPal (friends & family): [email redacted] if you have my email.

If another method works better for you, feel free to reach out.

Thank you for being part of this wish. Whether or not you’re able to give, just reading and holding this intention with me is a gift in itself. I’m learning that it’s okay to ask for support—and that healing sometimes begins with simply making space to be held.

With love,

Lilac Cooper (Leora)

(Ps- please see pictures. Grumpy is my emotional support animal. He comes across as rough and tough but he is all soft inside. He helped through me excruciating dental issues)