Coming Home to Herself: Lola’s Journey from Survival to Purpose
What Makes You a Beautiful Disaster?
I graduated early at 17 and left home to pursue life as a showgirl, driven by independence and a desire to create my own path.
At 19, my life took a devastating turn when I was attacked by three men. I survived—not just physically, but through a deep and stubborn will to keep going.
A year later, I was diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder. What followed were years of instability—cycling on and off medications that often left me feeling disconnected from myself. During that time, I endured an abusive relationship and survived two suicide attempts. There were moments I truly lost my way, unsure if I would ever find solid ground again.
What carried me through was love. My parents and my sister never stopped showing up for me, even in my darkest moments. Their belief in me held a light when I couldn’t see one for myself.
Over time, I began to rebuild. I found stability, and eventually, I found peace—thanks in large part to my husband, who helped me rediscover safety, trust, and the possibility of a different life.
I went on to build a 22-year career in federal service, something I am deeply proud of. It gave me structure, purpose, and a way to contribute beyond myself. On the outside, it looked like I had found stability—and in many ways, I had. But there was still a quiet voice inside me searching for something more connected, more embodied, more me.
That calling found me through Pilates.
What began as movement became something much deeper. Pilates gave me a way back into my body—a body that had carried trauma, survival, and resilience for decades. It taught me how to feel again safely, how to rebuild strength from the inside out, and how to trust myself in a new way.
Training to become an instructor was one of the most challenging and empowering things I’ve ever done. It required discipline, vulnerability, and belief in myself in ways that echoed every chapter of my life. And yet, it felt like coming home.
Now, when I teach, I don’t just teach movement. I teach resilience. I teach connection. I teach people how to come back to themselves—because I know what it means to feel lost.
At 57, I can say I have lived an extraordinary life—not because it was easy, but because I never gave up on it. My 32-year marriage stands as a testament to resilience, commitment, and healing. My miracle—my greatest gift—my son continues to give me a reason to live, to grow, and to keep moving forward.
This is not just my story of survival. It is my story of return—back to myself, back to strength, and back to purpose.
Why Do You Identify with the Beautiful Disaster Brand?
Because it’s like wearing my life story on the outside instead of carrying it inside.
Tell Us Your Beautiful Disaster Story
Many years ago, I saw someone wearing one of your shirts. I went home and searched for your brand, and when I found it, I bought my first piece—a tank that felt like it told my story.
Recently, as a new Pilates instructor, I found the brand again and was so happy to reconnect with it.
What Happened for You to Turn It Around?
As someone who lives with hypomanic bipolar disorder, my turning point came through layers of love.
First, it was my parents. Then, my husband. And finally, my baby boy—who saved me during my last suicide attempt.
Now, it’s the peace that has come from retiring from government work and finally finding my true calling.
Name 3 Things You’ve Done to Move Closer to Happiness
- Accepted and finally learned to love myself
- Got the help I needed through therapy and medication
- Found my calling and stepped fully into it
What Is Your Favorite Beautiful Disaster Collection, Past or Present, and Why?
The Angel Collection, because it feels like me.