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Defying the Odds: The Incredible Survival Story of Laura Villamil

Resilience. Strength. The will to survive. These words take on a new meaning when we talk about Laura Villamil, the Colombian dancer whose life changed forever during a tragic accident at Andrés Carne de Res. Just recently; I watched an interview where Laura opened up about what she endured—the unimaginable pain, the uncertainty, and the fight to reclaim her life. Doctors gave her only a 10% chance of survival. And yet, against all odds, she did.

The Night That Changed Everything

On August 17, 2024, Laura Villamil performed at the well-known Andrés Carne de Res restaurant in Chía, Colombia. The stage was set for a night of entertainment, but it quickly became a nightmare. A fire effect intended to add a dramatic flair to her performance malfunctioned. In a matter of seconds, her costume was engulfed in flames, leaving her with burns covering 85% of her body. As panic erupted around her, her life hung in the balance.

Rushed to the Fundación Santa Fe hospital, Laura was placed in a medically induced coma. The prognosis was grim. Surviving such extensive burns is rare, and doctors prepared her family for the worst. But Laura wasn't ready to give up.

The Long Road to Recovery

In the interview I watched, Laura described the excruciating pain of her recovery. She spent months in intensive care, undergoing multiple surgeries, including skin grafts and reconstructive procedures. She recounted how every slight movement felt like an impossible task and how her mind had to fight as much as her body.

It wasn't just about physical healing. Laura faced emotional trauma—waking up to a reality where her body was forever changed, her career as a dancer uncertain, and her future unknown. And yet, she never stopped fighting.

Raising Questions About Safety and Responsibility

Laura's story also brought up more significant conversations about workplace safety, responsibility, and the risks performers take in the entertainment industry. Her family has taken legal action against Andrés Carne de Res, pushing for accountability and changes that could prevent similar tragedies.

How often do we take safety for granted? How many industries put their workers—especially performers—at unnecessary risk for spectacle? Laura's story isn't just about survival; it's a wake-up call.

A Story of Unbreakable Spirit

What struck me the most about Laura's interview was not just what she went through but how she emerged from it. She expressed gratitude for the second chance she was given, the medical team that fought for her, and the strangers who supported her journey.

Stories like Laura's serve as a potent reminder that the human spirit is often stronger than we give it credit for. It's easy to feel overwhelmed in the face of adversity, to believe that the odds are insurmountable. But then we encounter stories like Laura's—stories of individuals who refuse to be defined by tragedy—and we're reminded that resilience is not just a trait of a few but a choice available to all of us. You, too, have the potential for such resilience.

Final Thoughts

Laura Villamil's journey is far from over. She continues to heal, advocate for change, and inspire others. Her story is a testament to the fact that hope is not a fleeting emotion but a constant companion, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds. This ongoing journey is a source of hope for all of us.

We all face our struggles. Some are visible, like Laura's, and some are hidden. But if there's one thing Laura's story teaches us, resilience isn't just about survival—it's about choosing to live, even when the odds say otherwise.

Have you ever faced a moment where you thought you couldn't push forward, but somehow you did? I'd love to hear your thoughts and stories in the comments. Let's celebrate the strength within all of us and the power of shared experiences to inspire resilience. Your story could be a source of inspiration for others.

Are You Ever Too Young to Write a Memoir?

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I recently published my book, The Courage to Succeed: A True American Dream, I was asked, "What kind of book is it?" My answer was simple: "A memoir." But then came another question that caught me off guard: "Aren't you too young to write a memoir?"

At that moment, I wasn't sure how to respond. The question lingered in my mind: Was I really too young to share my story? Did I need to wait until I had more years behind me? Then, someone I asked for advice responded with a simple but powerful question: "Says who?"

That made me think. Who decides when someone is 'old enough' to reflect on their life? I turned to research and quickly realized something important—writing a memoir isn't about age. It can be about experiences along the road, reflections, and the willingness to share your personal truth.

Memoirs aren't just for those who have lived long lives. They are for anyone who has a story to tell.

Younger writers may not have decades of experience to draw from, or they may, but they can for sure bring a fresh perspective, capturing moments and emotions that resonate differently. This unique perspective is valid and crucial in enriching the literary landscape. I don't know what others may think, but I have lived 100 lives in many ways, and I know I still have much more to live—especially me, someone as Adventurous as I am. There is never a dull moment with me.

Meanwhile, older writers can offer wisdom shaped by time. Neither is more valid than the other. What truly matters is the depth of the story, the honesty in the telling, and the connection it creates with readers.

If you've ever wondered whether you're 'too young' to write a memoir, I encourage you to push that doubt aside. Your story, voice, and perspective are valuable regardless of age. 

When is the right time to write? When you feel ready to share your journey, you should start. I started writing this book at age 16. Whatever your story is, it is worth telling and will undoubtedly resonate with others.

If you're thinking about writing your memoir, you don't have to wait for permission. 

Start now. Your life is a story constantly unfolding, and every chapter is worth telling. The sooner you start, the sooner you can share your unique perspective and connect with readers waiting to hear your story.

 

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The Courage to Succeed

Success is often portrayed as the result of talent, hard work, and determination. But beneath it all, at the very core, lies something deeper—courage. The courage to believe in yourself when no one else does. The courage to take risks when the outcome is uncertain. The courage to keep going, even when every obstacle tells you to stop. When you embrace this courage to succeed, it empowers you; it puts you in control of your journey.

I have learned that success is not simply about having the right skills or the perfect plan. It's about daring to step forward, even when fear whispers that failure is inevitable. It's about silencing doubt, pushing past rejection, and refusing to let setbacks define you.

Courage and Fear

Fear is a given companion on the road to success—fear of failure, judgment, and not being enough. But courage doesn't mean the absence of fear—it means moving forward despite it.

I remember a time in my life when doubt nearly consumed me. I had dreams, big dreams, but the path ahead felt overwhelming. What if I failed? What if I wasn't good enough? The weight of uncertainty was suffocating. One day, I realized something crucial: the only way to fail is not to try.

I had to choose to let fear control me or embrace courage and take the first step. That moment changed everything. Once you take that first step, fear starts to lose its grip. Each act of bravery builds upon the last, creating momentum that carries you forward.

Courage to Stand Alone

Success often requires standing alone, at least for a while. There will be times when people don't understand your vision. Some may doubt you. Others may discourage you. But courage means staying true to yourself, even when the support isn't there.

Every great success story has a moment of solitude—when the person pursuing their dream has to push forward without applause, reassurance, and sometimes criticism. Those moments test you, but they also shape you. Because if you can stand firm in your purpose when no one is watching, you'll be unstoppable when the world finally takes notice.

Courage to Fail

No journey to success is without failure. However, how we respond to failure separates those who succeed from those who give up. Some see failure as the end, while the courageous see it as a lesson.

I have failed more than once. Sometimes, I wanted to give up, walk away, and convince myself that the end goal was not for me. But each failure held a lesson. It taught me resilience, strengthened me, and, most importantly, prepared me for the success ahead.

Failure isn't the opposite of success—it's a necessary part of it. I believe people who succeed are not the ones who never fail but the ones who refuse to let failure stop them.

Courage to Define Your Success

Society often tries to define success for us—wealth, status, and recognition. True success is deeply personal. It's about what makes you happy. It's about waking up each day knowing you are living a life with purpose.

For some, success means building a business. For others, it means raising a family, creating art, and making a difference in their community. It could be as simple as finding joy in everyday life or as grand as achieving a lifelong dream. Whatever success means to you, own it. Don't try to chase someone else's dream—I'd say chase your own.

The Power of Courage

Looking back on my journey, I realize that every milestone, achievement, and moment of triumph is built on a deep desire—the courage to start, keep going, and believe that success is within my reach.

If there is one thing I want you to take from this, it's this: You have that courage, too. You are capable, confident, and courageous.

No matter where you are or what challenges stand in your way, remember that success is not just reserved for the lucky or the privileged. It belongs to those who dare to go after it.

So step forward, take the risk, and keep pushing. Being Successful is not just about having talent or good luck. So, take a moment to reflect on your journey and identify the areas where you can apply the power of courage to achieve your success.

The Gift of Goodbye

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Recently, I gave myself a gift that, while difficult, was necessary—the gift of goodbye. Letting go is never easy, but sometimes, it is the healthiest and most freeing choice we can make.

For years, I tried to build cordial relationships with certain distant family members. No matter what I said or did or how much effort I put into fostering understanding, there was always an underlying tension, a wall that refused to come down. I wanted peace, but peace was never entirely within reach—not because I didn’t try, but because there was always one person stirring the pot.

This individual thrived on manipulation, and instead of others seeing it for what it was, they continued to feed into it, giving power to the toxicity. Time and again, I found myself caught in the same exhausting cycle—trying, hoping, giving the benefit of the doubt—only to be pulled back into the same old chaos. It was like trying to build a bridge on quicksand.

Eventually, I faced a painful truth: some relationships are not meant to be. The more I tried to nurture connections with these family members, the more this person found a way to insert herself into our lives, bringing a storm of demands and drama. It was an endless loop, and I knew I had to break free.

So, I made a decision. I said, "Enough is enough." I chose my emotional and mental well-being over the illusion of harmony that would never truly exist. Walking away wasn’t easy, but neither was constantly battling a situation that drained me.

In this case, goodbye was not just an ending—it was a beginning—a beginning of peace, self-respect, and prioritizing my happiness over unhealthy ties. And while it may feel bittersweet, I remind myself that sometimes, the greatest act of self-love is knowing when to walk away.

Find out more at www.rosabelunscripted.com

You can find my book "The Courage to Succeed A True American Dream on: 

Amazon

Barnes&Noble

The Human Margin Part 2 and DOGE -Department of Government Efficiency

 This week in the Life Unscripted Podcast:

The Human Margin Part 2 and DOGE -Department of Government Efficiency

https://open.spotify.com/episode/4stlswkKesQwkmVYkZfwGx?si=d516f211c00a428a

In this episode of the Life Unscripted podcast, Rosabel and Reid delve into the themes of vulnerability, leadership, and workplace culture, emphasizing the importance of small gestures in leadership. They discuss how these elements contribute to employee retention and overall workplace morale. The conversation then shifts to government efficiency, mainly focusing on the DOGE initiative, which aims to modernize federal technology and reduce wasteful spending. They explore the implications of this initiative, including audits and the allocation of funds, while also addressing the challenges of balancing efficiency with human connection in various sectors, especially healthcare.

Find out more at www.rosabelunscripted.com

You can find my book "The Courage to Succeed A True American Dream on: 

Amazon

Barnes&Noble

Reflections on Kill as Few Patients as Possible

I recently read Kill as Few Patients as Possible by Oscar London, MD, and I was entertained and deeply reflective. The book is a collection of 56 sharp and humorous essays that offer a candid, behind-the-scenes look at the medical profession. Dr. London's wit is razor-sharp, but beneath the humor lies a wealth of wisdom that resonates with anyone in healthcare—or anyone who has ever been a patient.

One of my biggest takeaways from this book is the role of humor in medicine. Dr. London clarifies that laughter is not just a tool for surviving the high-stakes world of healthcare but an essential part of doctor-patient interactions. I've always believed that bedside manner is crucial, but reading his insights has reinforced how much a well-placed joke or a reassuring smile can impact a patient's experience.

Dr. London doesn't shy away from highlighting doctors' fallibility. He reminds us that medicine is an ever-evolving field, no matter how much experience we gain, and humility is key to becoming a great physician. His explanation resonated deeply with me. It's easy to fall into the trap of thinking we know everything, but his words were a refreshing reminder that the best doctors continue to learn, question, and adapt.

One of the book's more thought-provoking aspects is its exploration of ethical dilemmas. Dr. London presents real-world scenarios that force physicians to make tough decisions, often in gray areas without perfect answers. Reading his perspectives made me reflect on my approach to ethical decision-making and the weight of responsibility that comes with patient care.

Dr. London emphasizes the significance of genuinely listening to patients throughout the book. I strive to do this daily, but his reflections reminded me that listening isn't just about hearing words—it's about understanding fears, concerns, and emotions. Building trust with patients isn't just a skill; it's an art.

Dr. London's humor and honesty remind us that while medicine is a science, it is also profoundly human. His reflections have given me a renewed sense of purpose and a reminder to approach each patient with compassion, humility, and a touch of humor.

Have you read Kill as Few Patients as Possible? I'd love to hear your thoughts. Let's discuss them in the comments below!

Exploring The Human Margin: A Deep Dive

This week on the Life Unscripted Podcast

https://open.spotify.com/show/0dR0ojKIY3igJLTEnLVUQ8?si=475b42c08ba440a9

Exploring The Human Margin: A Deep Dive

In episode 13 of the Life Unscripted podcast, hosts Rosabel and Reid unpack the profound insights from Katherine Mees and Quint Stutter's book, 'The Human Margin'. We delve into life's margins, emphasizing how genuine connections and significant growth occur in these spaces. Key themes explored include vulnerability, trust, and human connection, underscoring their critical roles in leadership, workplace culture, and personal relationships. We emphasize the importance of empathy and authentic communication in fostering supportive environments, particularly in healthcare and corporate settings. We conclude with reflections on the impact of small gestures and authenticity in nurturing meaningful connections.

Find out more at www.rosabelunscripted.com

You can find my book "The Courage to Succeed: A True American Dream on: 

Amazon

Barnes&Noble