Blooming Magnolia

We wanted to provide an update and let you know that we've been on a bit of a hiatus due to family and personal matters. However, we are still dedicated to supporting you & your well-being.

We continue to offer 4 free virtual therapy sessions to those in need through one of our partners. No strings attached. If needed, you can cancel after the month. Our priority is to ensure you have the support you need, even if it's just a sounding board.

We are huge advocates of therapy and want to make sure you have access to this valuable resource. If you or someone you know needs support, please email us at [email protected] with your name and email address.

Thank you for your understanding & continued support. 🌸

Happy 3rd Birthday, Blooming Magnolia!

As we come together for Long COVID Awareness Day, today always marks a significant milestone as we celebrate the 3rd anniversary of Blooming Magnolia's launch on March 15, 2021. Despite adversities, our founder & CEO envisioned Blooming Magnolia from her sickbed in the summer of 2020, after she was the first to speak of SARS-CoV-2 injuries on national television, paving the way for our 2021 launch.

Thanks to the dedication and hard work of our team, Blooming Magnolia has evolved into a thriving nonprofit organization, providing essential resources and support to those in need. We are immensely proud of our accomplishments in just three years, made possible by the unwavering support of our volunteers, donors, and supporters.

𝗪𝗲'𝘃𝗲 𝗮𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗱 𝗿𝗲𝗺𝗮𝗿𝗸𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗺𝗶𝗹𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗻𝗲𝘀:
• Awarded thousands of dollars in direct cash payments to SARS-CoV-2 injured survivors through our "Giving Season" initiative, aiding those facing financial insecurity.
• Established the Blooming Magnolia Network, offering vital mental health support and resources, including "Magnolia Mondays" with expert-led sessions on meditation, nutrition, and self-care.
• Earned the 2021 & 2022 Bronze Stevie® Award in the "Most Valuable Nonprofit Response" category, recognizing our impactful contributions.
• Our Chief Medical Officer has been part of several committees with the NIH RECOVER initiative since 2021 and has also been a part of several international efforts to study and make guidelines for long COVID
• Partnered with an online mental health platform, offering 4 FREE therapy sessions to individuals in need.
• Collaborated with brands and companies to streamline support for our mission, ensuring accessibility for all.
• Received a “Platinum Seal of Transparency” through Candid.org
• Been featured and mentioned in several news pieces about SARS-CoV-2, highlighting our dedication to supporting survivors.

As we commemorate our 3rd birthday, we extend heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has supported us on this journey. Your generosity and kindness have transformed lives and fueled our mission to provide hope and support to those in need.

It's worth mentioning that this year has been turbulent for our entire board of directors, as we've dealt with various family emergencies. We appreciate your patience as we navigate through these challenges. Despite this, we are opening grant applications for a limited time! Click here to fill out an application if you are in need (https://forms.gle/mCan1WK9tcFzg2B99) If selected, you will receive an email notification. Thank you for your understanding and support.

We remain steadfast in our commitment to making a positive impact in our community and beyond. Here's to Blooming Magnolia - cheers to many more years of growth, healing, and impact!

______


𝗧𝗼 𝘀𝘂𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗶𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲𝘀, 𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲'𝘀 𝗵𝗼𝘄 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗰𝗮𝗻 𝗴𝗲𝘁 𝗶𝗻𝘃𝗼𝗹𝘃𝗲𝗱:
• Donate: Your tax-deductible contribution directly impacts survivors in need. Visit www.BloomingMagnolia.org to donate, or email us for wire transfer details.
• Spread the Word: Share our mission with your network to raise awareness and support for SARS-CoV-2 injured survivors.
• Join Our Community: Survivors can connect, share stories, and access resources through our Blooming Magnolia Network. Join us and be part of our supportive community.
• Volunteer: Passionate about our mission? Volunteer opportunities are available. Reach out to us at [email protected] to learn more.

Dear Blooming Magnolia Community,

I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to share an important update regarding our Giving Season grant distribution.

Unfortunately, we are facing an unforeseen medical emergency within our organization. Our founder's mother experienced a heart attack and is now undergoing quintuple bypass surgery. This unexpected situation has required her immediate attention.

As a result, we have had to temporarily delay the opening of applications for our Giving Season grants. We will keep you informed of the updated timeline and provide all the necessary details to participate in this meaningful initiative.

Our mission remains unchanged: to empower and uplift those affected by SARS-CoV-2 injuries. We are grateful for your unwavering support as we navigate through this difficult period.

Warm regards,
Your Blooming Magnolia Team

Today begins our 3rd Annual Giving Season! 🌸

For those who have been part of our incredible network, you know that Giving Season is our most significant fundraising campaign of the year! The funds we raise during this special time are specifically allocated to support COVID injured survivors in need.

This year, we're gearing up for our most impactful Giving Season yet, with a goal to double our impact from last year. Our goal is to provide 100 grants to 100 patients in need, offering them support for medical bills, mortgage/rent payments, utilities, holiday expenses, and anything else they require.

Many of these patients are dealing with severe challenges like organ damage, blood clots, heart attacks, and more since early 2020. They have not only faced significant health struggles but have also lost their careers, vehicles, homes, and livelihoods in the process.

It's up to us to do what we can to support these individuals who have endured so much. And here's the great news: Blooming Magnolia is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation, which means your generous donation is tax-exempt!

If you'd like to get a head start and contribute to help us reach our goal this year, please visit www.BloomingMagnolia.org. You can also make a donation through our page at www.Facebook.com/BloomingMagnoliaOrg. Or through verified charity Venmo

If you prefer to do a wire transfer, please email us at [email protected] and we will give you details for that.

Together, we can make a significant difference in the lives of those who need it most. We couldn’t do this without you. Let's make this Giving Season one to remember!

Our Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Perlowski, was part of an op-ed published on MedPage Today. Check out the article to learn more.

Opinion | This Isn't COVID's Final Act We must keep the virus, and long COVID, center stage

Dear Blooming Magnolia supporters,

In these times of uncertainty, taking care of our mental well-being is crucial. We want to gently remind you that we are here to support you through every step of your journey. If you or someone you know is in need of professional mental health guidance, we can help.

Thanks to our partnership with a trusted virtual platform, we are offering 1 month of FREE therapy, which includes 4 sessions with licensed and compassionate therapists. This offer is extended to every member of our network, regardless of whether you are a Long COVID patient or not. It's our way of reaching out to anyone who may need a helping hand during challenging times.

Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, and you don't have to face your challenges alone. Whether you're dealing with stress, anxiety, or simply need someone to talk to, these therapy sessions are here to provide the support you deserve.

To take advantage of this opportunity, all you need to do is send us an email. Reach out to us [email protected], and we will guide you through the simple process of accessing your free therapy sessions. No strings attached, no obligations—just a genuine offer of support from Blooming Magnolia.

Your well-being is our top priority, and we are committed to fostering an environment where everyone feels heard, understood, and empowered. We encourage you to share this message with anyone who might benefit from this.

In bloom together,
Your Blooming Magnolia Team

May you never discredit how far you have come.

May you never forget all the little ways you've grown.

May you always remember how you have already taken millions of breaths in this life, and that is progress all on its own.

May you travel like a river toward the end of August, embracing the flow in a mindful way.

May you journey into September knowing you are free to pace yourself each day.

And with every inhale and exhale you take, may you keep finding rhythms for making it through.

And with every new mountain you face, may vou remember the lessons of the earlier mountains behind you.

For perhaps, after everything, you are more prepared than you think.

And you will only continue to gather wisdom and courage at every place on this journey.

May your hope for the future continue to rise with the rising of each new day's morning sun.

May you never forget all it took just to be here.

May you never discredit how far you have come.

🚨 SOUND THE ALARM: A RESCUE MISSION FOR COVID INJURED SURVIVORS

Did you know…

* 2-4 Million working age adults are unable to work because of Long COVID (Brookings/US Census Bureau).

* Although Long COVID is considered a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), many survivors have trouble getting benefits (Kaiser Health News).

* Long COVID is leading to homelessness, and the inability to afford essentials, such as food and medical care.

* Long COVID patients often don’t have a social safety net, or anywhere to turn for help as they wait for research to find cures.

That’s why Blooming Magnolia, our Long COVID Support & Mental Health Advocacy nonprofit, is sounding the alarm on this devastating crisis.

LEARN MORE AND HELP US TAKE ACTION BY GOING TO www.LongCovidRescueMission.com

SOUND THE ALARM A Rescue Mission For COVID Injured Survivors!

Friend, along the grief journey, you're bound to have more than your share of grief-y days.

Those days when you wish you could just curl up in the bed and pretend that life isn't continuing to move forward.

In case you're having one of those days today, here are a few reminders. They're not designed to bypass what you're experiencing. Rather, they're simply little nuggets that like me, you may easily forget. 🌸

Need connection & support? Join our friends for a LONG COVID ZOOM CHAT! 🌐🗣️

This support groups is here for you, Monday to Friday, from 10a PST to 12p PST / 1p EST to 3p EST. Let's support each other through the days of Long COVID life!

👉 Come & go as you please
🎥 Video can be on or off

Connect with via DM on Twitter for the link:



OR Email for the link:
[email protected]

Let's chat, share experiences, and find comfort together. You're not alone. 🤝💙

support is essential while battling and other chronic illnesses. If you or someone you know is struggling with or without health issues, we're here to help. Email us at [email protected] for four free virtual mental health sessions from our partner. You're not alone in this fight. 🌸

In a recent tweet, our Chief Medical Officer emphasizes the grave reality of , labeling it as a public health crisis impacting the economy and workforce.

We must not limit to "symptoms" only, but understand it as a chronic, multi-organ condition causing harm, disability, and loss of life.

The issue of is not fading. Urgent intervention from governments is required.

—

In need of assistance? Send us a direct message with your email to receive four complimentary online sessions from our partner.

To understand more about our initiatives or donate, visit us at www.BloomingMagnolia.org

A few reminders:

You are not a failure because you were not able to help someone how you hoped to.

You are not a failure for needing to ask for help...again.

You are not a failure for not getting everything done today (even if you've been taught to feel that way).
You are not a failure because vou haven't accomplished what your peers have accomplished (even if it looks or feels that way).

You are not a failure when it takes you longer to process certain things.

You are not a failure for taking longer to complete tasks than others.

You are not a failure for needing more clarification or instruction so you can complete the task.

You are not a failure for needing longer breaks.

You are human being and you are doing what you can with what you have, and you are free to breathe deeply and pace yourself on this journey in whatever way you can.

There are so many more of these I could write...I am only scratching the surface. But I just wanted to take a moment and name these things for anyone who feels like a failure. I do not know who or what made you feel that way, but I do know that there is no shame, and you are worthy of love, support, rest, and grace, right here.

🌸 We're thrilled to announce that Blooming Magnolia has officially received the upgraded 2023 Platinum Seal of Transparency from Candid.org! 🎉

This prestigious recognition highlights our commitment to transparency and accountability in our nonprofit operations. We're excited to share the impactful work we do through our updated on Candid.org.

To learn more about our mission, initiatives, strategy, and the difference we're making in the lives of COVID injured survivors and mental health advocacy, please visit our sharable full profile link: https://www.guidestar.org/Profile/86-1962296

Your support and engagement mean the world to us. Together, let's continue to empower others, promote mental health, and make a positive impact in our community and beyond. Thank you for being part of the Blooming Magnolia family! 🌸💚

🌸 Important Announcement: Introducing Our Partnership with BetterHelp! 🌸

Dear Blooming Magnolia community,

We are thrilled to share some exciting news with you today. Blooming Magnolia Network has joined forces with BetterHelp, a leading platform that offers private, affordable online counseling services provided by licensed, board-accredited therapists. This partnership aims to enhance the support we provide to our valued community members like you!

As we speak, our dedicated team is diligently working on updating our website to reflect this exciting affiliation. In the coming days, you will notice the integration of BetterHelp's services on our platform, allowing you to easily access the professional counseling you may need, right from the comfort of your own home.

We truly understand the importance of mental health and well-being, especially during these challenging times. That's why we are delighted to extend a special offer exclusively for our loyal Blooming Magnolia Network email subscribers. If you have received an email from us, you will find a unique opportunity to benefit from one month of FREE therapy on BetterHelp—no strings attached! Your email will not be used by BetterHelp otherwise. We encourage you to take advantage of this incredible offer, but please remember that it is entirely up to you whether you choose to explore this opportunity or not. Your well-being is our priority, and we are here to support you in any way we can.

We sincerely hope that this collaboration with BetterHelp will prove immensely beneficial to Long COVID patients who may be seeking professional guidance and support.

Thank you for being a part of the Blooming Magnolia family. We appreciate your continued trust and support. If you have any questions or need further information, please don't hesitate to reach out to our team.

Wishing you health, happiness, and abundant growth!

Warm regards,

Blooming Magnolia Team

🌸Searching for mental health resources? Subscribe to our email list at www.BloomingMagnolia.org and sign up before Sunday, April 30, ends, and we'll deliver an exclusive FREE gift 🎁 to your inbox on Monday! Seize this chance to enhance your mental well-being and grow with us!
www.BloomingMagnolia.org

Our Founder & CEO, Shelby Hedgecock, as well as one of our Blooming Magnolia Network members, Julia Landis & Linda Rosenthal, were featured in this segment that was picked up by NPR and Kaiser Health News this week. "As pandemic emergencies end, some patients with long COVID feel 'swept under the rug'"

You can listen to the radio piece and read the web interview by clicking here: https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2023/04/19/1164284653/as-pandemic-emergencies-end-some-patients-with-long-covid-feel-swept-under-the-r

If you are struggling, you are not alone! Our organization has been working behind the scenes over the past few weeks making some big moves in the mental health space ensuring you get support while we're waiting on treatments. Make sure you're on our email list for a special gift and an the announcement coming Monday, May 1! www.BloomingMagnolia.org

[Image Description: Shelby Hedgecock stands in front of a billboard from a Los Angeles County public health campaign that featured her as a Long COVID patient back in 2020.]

Happy 2nd Birthday, Blooming Magnolia! 🎉🌸🎂

Today, we celebrate a very special occasion - the 2nd anniversary of Blooming Magnolia's launch on March 15, 2021. This day is significant because just one year prior, the world shut down due to the pandemic. Despite her challenges, our founder and CEO started putting together the vision for Blooming Magnolia from her sickbed in the summer of 2020 for a 2021 launch date.

Thanks to our team's dedication and hard work, Blooming Magnolia has grown into a thriving nonprofit organization that provides resources and support to those who need them most. We are so proud of all that we have accomplished in just two short years and we couldn't have done it without the support of our volunteers, donors, and supporters.

We have:
+ Awarded direct cash payments to Long COVID survivors who have become financially insecure and lack the means to pay medical and/or living expenses. For example, we funded travel expenses of a teenage girl with Long COVID who needed medical treatment at Children’s National Hospital in Washington, D.C. We almost tripled our impact from last year!
+ Created the Blooming Magnolia Network, which offers mental health support and resources to those in need. Activities include “Magnolia Mondays,” where experts present on various topics such as: guided meditation, nutrition tips, and self-care practices.
+ Won the 2021 & 2022 Bronze Stevie® Award in the “Most Valuable Nonprofit Response" category in the 19th annual Stevie Awards

As we celebrate our 2nd birthday, we want to take a moment to thank everyone who has helped us along the way. Your generosity, kindness, and unwavering support have made all the difference in the lives of those we serve.

We remain committed to our mission of providing hope and support to those in need, and we look forward to continuing to make a positive impact in our community and beyond. So, here's to Blooming Magnolia - happy birthday, and cheers to many more years of growth, healing, and success! 🌸🎉🎂

Yesterday our Founder and CEO, Shelby Hedgecock, was featured on an affiliate of NPR, where she shared her powerful story on the struggles of individuals still battling Long COVID amidst the end of pandemic emergencies. Blooming Magnolia was also mentioned in the web article, acknowledging the crucial role our organization has played in supporting those dealing with this condition.

As we gear up to celebrate Long COVID Awareness Day and Blooming Magnolia's 2-year anniversary, we couldn't have asked for a better time for our CEO to share her voice and advocate for those who need it most. Her story and our organization's mention on this platform has been a powerful call-to-action to raise awareness and offer support to those still grappling with the long-term effects of this devastating virus.

This highlights the crucial work we have been doing to provide resources, community, and a sense of hope to individuals dealing with Long COVID. We are grateful for this recognition and we hope that it will continue to raise awareness about Long COVID and inspire others to join us in our mission to offer support and resources to those affected.

We look forward to continuing to advocate for the support and resources that individuals with Long COVID need and deserve.

Link: https://laist.com/news/health/the-pandemic-emergencies-are-ending-where-does-that-leave-people-battling-long-covid

Happy International Women's Day! 💜 Today, we celebrate the incredible resilience and strength of women everywhere.

As we continue to navigate the challenges of SARS-CoV-2, it's more important than ever to prioritize our mental health and support those who are struggling.

Here at Blooming Magnolia, a women-led nonprofit, we're committed to creating a brighter, more equitable future for all. Today, let's celebrate the resilience and strength of women everywhere and continue to work towards a world where mental health is a priority for everyone. Happy International Women's Day! 💜

Credited Art Director: Cesar Miralda

We understand that there’s been a lot of frustration lately regarding the funding of mind-body therapy and exercise studies, and we want you to know that we empathize with your concerns. Long COVID is a serious, multisystemic illness that has robbed us of our health and changed our lives- and we’re in desperate need of a safe and effective cure. But- what can we do in the meantime, to support our bodies and minds while we wait for science to catch up?

Published studies have shown that Long COVID can affect most systems in the body, including the brain (cognition, personality changes, anxiety), autonomic nervous system (POTS), heart, lungs, and blood vessels. We want to share with you that nervous system interventions (like mindfulness) have been shown to improve depression, pain acceptance/tolerance, coping, and pain control in patients with chronic illnesses. Monitored movement and exercise programs are also recommended for most chronic cardiac and vascular conditions. Therefore, it’s likely these types of therapies may be useful adjuncts (supplements, additions) for Long COVID treatment as well. Of course- taking into serious and careful consideration post exertional symptom exacerbation!

As a cardiologist and COVID injured survivor herself, Dr. Alice strongly believes that these types of studies can be extremely valuable, but we understand that they may not be suitable for everyone. But we think it’s important to consider all options when it comes to managing Long COVID, especially since effective treatments are still being developed.

For those of you in the Los Angeles area, we would like to share a study on mindfulness in Long COVID being conducted by UCLA. We can assure you that the principal investigator, who’s a cardiologist Dr. Alice has known for many years, understands the severity of Long COVID and is committed to finding effective treatments. We also recognize that financial constraints can make it incredibly challenging for some patients to afford supervised therapy, and this study may be a beneficial option for those in need!

We acknowledge that some may disagree with these types of studies; however, we kindly ask that any disagreements be expressed respectfully and without vitriol directed towards the investigators. It’s important to continue to encourage scientists and clinicians to study Long COVID, even if the focus of their research may be on adjunct therapies.

As always, your participation in these studies is optional! We hope that you will consider these options with an open mind and continue to support one another- along with researchers and clinicians- in navigating the challenges of Long COVID. We’d also welcome your thoughts on this or any other topic you’d like to discuss- we’re always looking for feedback!

Long COVID Community Sets International Awareness Date for March 15th

On March 15, 2023 those who have been impacted by Long COVID will come together for the very first International Long COVID Awareness Day. This yearly observance hopes to spread information about the impacts of Long COVID around the world. Long COVID support groups and those suffering the illness around the world will unite to host special online events. There will be Twitter Spaces to support those struggling with Long COVID and educate the public about the illness. All over social media we will be posting black and white images of something that we can no longer do because of Long COVID, using hashtags: and . The mission is to bring people together and increase awareness about the disease.

In January 2023, first wave Long COVID patient Angela Laffin started a grassroots movement from her couch, sending out polls to the patient community on social media to establish an awareness day, and to unite with support groups and Long COVID organizations internationally.

"Long COVID is too often left out of the discussion about the negative effects of Covid infections. This day [Long COVID Awareness Day] we act together internationally to show that the impact of Long COVID can no longer be ignored." -Tove Lundberg, chair of the Swedish Covid Association

Social media plays a major role in connecting those within the Long COVID community, as many people are too unwell to work or leave their home for more than medical appointments.

"It was really no surprise that the month of March was picked for Long COVID Awareness; many that are still suffering in the community were infected in March 2020," expressed campaign organizer Angela Laffin. "My hope is that this awareness campaign will make the impacts of Long COVID more visible to those outside our community, plus serve as a resource connection hub for both those suffering from Long COVID and also those who may not yet know that they are suffering from this disease."

Long COVID, also known as Post-Acute Sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 (PASC), is a disabling illness with a complex list of over 200 possible symptoms, affecting more than 65 million people worldwide. “In March 2022, an estimated 23 million Americans suffered from Long Covid. Today, studies suggest that number could be as high as 41 million people battling Long Covid in the United States. Yet, there’s no cure or treatment,” says filmmaker Joshua Pribanic, a Long COVID patient and founder of LCAP (Long Covid Action Project). “On March 15th we act in solidarity calling for an end to the Long COVID crisis through bi-partisan support to find a cure.”

In order to help the public take action on , LCAP has created an online letter that when signed can be sent to all levels of the U.S. government. The letter states, “Despite incomplete data about vaccines, two recent studies from George Washington University and Harvard that looked at infections between 2020-2022 found an average of 40% prevalence of Long COVID – even in these discrete populations that had vaccine mandates. Today we don’t have enough clinics, enough funding, education, nor enough specialists to care for the rising cases of Long COVID. As a large and ever-growing community, we feel the United States is not doing enough to meet the needs of this crisis. Therefore, we, the undersigned, demand that your political office explain what steps you are taking in response to the Long COVID crisis by March 16th, 2023.”

It is unclear how long someone might suffer from Long COVID complications. To date, people have lost jobs, savings, and relationships from the complex chronic conditions Long COVID creates. While some might find a bit of relief with medications, supplements or therapies, there is no proven treatment for Long COVID.

To make matters worse, many people living with Long COVID have experienced gaslighting by doctors and loved ones. Unfortunately, most people in the general public do not understand how debilitating Long COVID can be. That's why the March 15th campaign is so important — with education comes understanding.

The March 15th campaign will focus on overcoming a myriad of challenges facing the Long COVID community. Our goals include connecting sufferers to peer support, resources on where to find social assistance for Long COVID patients, Long COVID education programs, advocacy for clean air and prevention, and urgent funding needed for research and reliable government data.

Colors for a tricolor ribbon were also polled by the community to represent those impacted by the illness. Tracey Thompson, another first wave Long COVID patient, has designed the Long COVID awareness ribbon the community will use to represent them. The tricolor ribbon consists of gray, teal and black: gray represents the losses and sadness from pandemic, teal represents hope and support, and black represents the loneliness and rest that comes with Long COVID. Thompson has also created graphics on the awareness website that anyone may use: https://LongCovidAwareness.Life.

Laffin will begin petitioning to get Long COVID Awareness Day officially recognized by the United Nations. Besides uniting those living with Long COVID, we are confident that this campaign will motivate the medical community to take more action in finding a cure for this illness.