Saima Adil Zafar, founder of True Homecare. (Credit: Courtesy of True Homecare)

1,000 Stories

Her Agency Offers Personalized At-Home Care

Saima Adil Zafar founded True Homecare after struggling to find the in-home help she needed for an older loved one.

April 15, 2026

By Victoria Flexner

When Saima Adil Zafar was looking for in-home care for an aging family member, the British entrepreneur struggled to find a company that provided the specialized services she sought. In 2012, Adil Zafar decided to launch her own company to fill that gap – that’s when her business, True Homecare, was born. Today, the Stockport, England company continues to provide their ever-growing roster of clients with individualized care where “each person is treated with respect, compassion, and dignity,” Adil Zafar tells us. “My passion for making a real difference in people’s lives and the drive to fill this market need pushed me to leap into entrepreneurship.”

Here’s our lightly edited Q&A, from The Story Exchange 1,000+ Stories Project.

How is your business different from others in your industry?

Our deep commitment to personalized care. We don’t just provide services – we build meaningful relationships with our clients. We tailor our care plans to each individual’s unique needs to ensure that they feel heard, seen and valued. Our focus is not only on providing physical support, but also on emotional and social well-being, which truly sets us apart in the home care industry.

Tell us about your biggest success so far. 

The trust we have earned from our clients and their families. Watching True Homecare grow from a small family-run business into a recognized name in the community has been incredibly rewarding. 

What is your top challenge and how have you addressed it?

Balancing the growth of the business with my personal life. As a family-run operation, I found it difficult to separate work from personal time in the early days. To address this, I’ve learned the importance of delegating responsibilities, setting clear boundaries, and creating time for self-care. Balancing both has been an ongoing learning process, but it’s key to sustainable success.

Have you experienced any significant personal situations that have affected your business decisions?

Being a full-time entrepreneur and running a domiciliary care agency – whilst still trying to be the best wife, mother, daughter-in-law, daughter and sister – is still quite challenging. 

What is your biggest tip for other startup entrepreneurs? 

Be patient and persistent. Starting a business takes time, and there will be challenges along the way. Learn from your mistakes, surround yourself with a supportive team, and always remember why you started. Persistence is key to overcoming obstacles and building something meaningful. 

How do you find inspiration on your darkest days?

I remind myself of the difference we’re making in people’s lives. The feedback from clients and their families, along with the relationships we’ve built, keeps me focused. I also lean on my team and family for support, as they are my greatest motivators. Taking a step back and focusing on the bigger picture always helps me reset, too. 

What is your go-to song to get motivated on tough days?

“Survivor – The Moment of Truth” by The Karate Kid OST. It’s an anthem of strength and perseverance, and it always helps me push through challenging moments.

Who is your most important role model? 

My mother. She taught me the importance of compassion and integrity, as well as the value of hard work. She always emphasized that it’s not just about what you do, but how you make people feel in the process. Her guidance has shaped both my personal and professional life.

Facebook: @TrueHomecare
X: @TrueHomecare

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Courtney Boylan, Founder of Le Lolo. (Credit: Courtesy of Le Lolo)

1,000 Stories

She’s Transforming the World of Postpartum Accessories

Courtney Boylan is the founder of Le Lolo, a modern postpartum accessories company making beautiful, functional products for new moms.

March 26, 2026

By Victoria Flexner

When Courtney Boylan became a mother, she noticed a huge gap in the postpartum market for needed personal items like nipple guards and body care products. The products available to new moms at the time were often clinical, sterile – utterly lacking in any sense of style. As a mom herself, she knew how transformative the postpartum experience could be, and how much a simple, beautiful item could lift one’s spirits in those early, exhausting days. So in 2024, the Lutherville-Timonium, Maryland-based entrepreneur launched Le Lolo. Boylan told us her drive to start up, and to keep her business going, comes from a desire “to make postpartum care both functional and beautiful, and to remind every mom of her strength, beauty and worth during one of life’s biggest transitions.” 

Here’s our lightly edited Q&A, from The Story Exchange 1,000+ Stories Project.

How is your business different from others in your industry?

While many postpartum brands focus solely on practicality, we’re redefining what the essentials can look and feel like. Our goal is not just to create products that work, but to create products that feel good to use. Each item is designed with intention, style and emotional connection. We aren’t just selling postpartum products – we’re selling a feeling. Every item we make reminds new moms that they are beautiful, strong and worthy – even on the hard days.

Tell us about your biggest success so far. 

Reaching a double-digit sales month – a huge milestone for a brand that just launched our full line in June 2025. I’ve built Le Lolo to be extremely lean, doing most of the work myself while staying focused on two key goals: Driving sales and building brand awareness. Not only are we achieving revenue growth, but we’re profitable each month. It’s been incredibly rewarding to test, learn and grow scrappily while seeing real traction and connection with our customers.

What is your top challenge and how have you addressed it?

As an entrepreneur with no prior experience in product-based e-commerce, business know-how has been at the heart of nearly all my challenges. I didn’t know how to do any of this at first, but I’ve been figuring it out as I go. If I had a blueprint, I might be farther along. That said, I’m deeply grateful for this journey, the mistakes I’ve made, and all I’ve learned along the way. Each month brings new lessons and steady growth. I’m continuing to educate myself, strengthen my business acumen, and build the strategies needed to scale Le Lolo with confidence and purpose.

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What is your biggest tip for other startup entrepreneurs? 

In the beginning, you’ll have no idea what you’re doing – but you will figure it out, I promise. Besides, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to entrepreneurship. Every journey looks different. Read books, listen to podcasts, and find a community of other entrepreneurs who are willing to share their experiences. You don’t have to pay to learn! There are amazing people out there who will offer guidance simply because they’ve been where you are. Seek those people out first, and build your support network early. It will make all the difference.

How do you find inspiration on your darkest days?

I remind myself why I started. Le Lolo isn’t just a brand – it’s a movement to remind new moms that they are amazing, and deserving of care. On the hard days, I think about the moms who are in the thick of postpartum life, feeling unseen or unsure of themselves, and it reignites my purpose. This brand is about shifting the focus back to mom.

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Her Tech Makes Ultrasounds More Shareable

What is your go-to song to get motivated on tough days?

I don’t have a specific song or artist, but I love listening to Activations on the Activations App. They’re short, powerful motivational talks that instantly shift my mindset and help me see challenges as opportunities. They’ve truly been life-changing for me as an entrepreneur.

Who is your most important role model? 

I’ve been blessed with several. My grandfather was an entrepreneur, and I believe that’s where my entrepreneurial spirit comes from. He built several successful businesses that set our family up for success, and I’m endlessly grateful for his example. My dad helped run the family business, and I loved visiting his office and watching him work. As a kid, I felt so proud knowing my family owned a business. That pride planted a seed that’s driven me to take risks and build something of my own.

My husband is also a huge role model for me. He’s taught me so much about leadership, trusting myself, and leading with heart. He has a natural ability to make people feel seen and valued, and his success as both a leader and entrepreneur inspires me daily. I feel lucky not only to be his wife, but also to keep learning from him. He truly makes me better every day.

The post She’s Transforming the World of Postpartum Accessories appeared first on The Story Exchange.

Maddie Scales, founder of No Girl Walks Alone. (Credit: Courtesy of No Girl Walks Alone)

1,000 Stories

Weekly Walks for Connecting Women to One Another

Maddie Scales launched No Girl Walks Alone to create communities of women who bond through weekly walks around Austin, Texas.

January 27, 2026

By Victoria Flexner

In 2022, Maddie Scales moved to Austin, Texas from Oxford, Mississippi. Her job was fully remote, and she didn’t know where to begin to build a new community for herself. On her evening walks, she would often see other women strolling alone, which gave her the idea to start a walking club for women – an idea that became No Girl Walks Alone. Scales has been hosting weekly evening walks through her nonprofit for three years, and has brought together women from all ages and walks of life during each outing. Scales told us her biggest success is watching women show up every week – to chat, to make new friends, to catch up with old ones, and be a part of the community she has built. 

Here’s our lightly edited Q&A, from The Story Exchange 1,000+ Stories Project.

How is your business different from others in your industry?

We are the largest walking club in Austin, Texas. We are also the first walking or running club (that we know of) to go down the nonprofit path.

Tell us about your biggest success so far. 

When women show up to our walks and tell us it’s the first time they left their house all week. Or, when we overhear someone being vulnerable with a stranger on one of our walks. Or, when someone messages us online to tell us they met their entire friend group through our walks. We measure success in smiles and connections.

What is your top challenge and how have you addressed it?

Sustainable growth. We have considered scaling through marketing efforts – for example, partnerships with brands to support our walks, or efforts to engage more often with our audience. However, this community exists to create time to disconnect from the noise of the world. We know our walkers do not want to be advertised to. They want to tuck their phones away and find connection with new people. This is part of why we are exploring a nonprofit model. 

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Have you experienced any significant personal situations that have affected your business decisions?

I have multiple family members who struggle with mental health challenges, and I have lost family members to suicide. This motivates me to create opportunities that allow others to take care of themselves and feel less alone.

What is your biggest tip for other startup entrepreneurs? 

The most important thing is your “why.” Why are you doing what you are doing? Get clear on that, and let it be your compass.

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How do you find inspiration on your darkest days?

By slowing down, spending time in nature, and reminding myself that it is a rare privilege to lead this organization.

What is your go-to song to get motivated on tough days?

“The Climb” by Miley Cyrus.

Who is your most important role model? 

Taylor Swift. I have been watching her in awe since she first released her debut album in 2009.

Instagram: @nogirlwalksalone
TikTok: @nogirlwalksalone

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Ellen Murphy, founder of Sona. (Credit: Courtesy of Sona)

1,000 Stories

Her Tech Makes Ultrasounds More Shareable

Ellen Murphy’s company, Sona, allows healthcare providers to instantly share ultrasound images and videos with patients.

December 4, 2025

By Victoria Flexner

When Boston-based entrepreneur Ellen Murphy became pregnant with her first child, she realized that ultrasound technology has not changed a whole lot over the last 40 years. For decades, expectant parents were given the same static thermal printouts – but in an age where so much of our lives exists on our smartphones, Murphy wondered if there might not be a quicker way for healthcare providers to share images with patients, and for patients to then share images with their family and friends. In 2016, she launched Sona, a HIPAA-compliant technology that lets ultrasound providers send images and clips directly from their machines to a mobile app for expectant parents, so families can instantly see their baby and easily share those moments with loved ones.

Here’s our lightly edited Q&A, from The Story Exchange 1,000+ Stories Project.

How is your business different from others in your industry?

Our technology is free for ultrasound providers to use, setup takes less than 10 minutes, and no hardware is required. Access for parents is free as well.

Tell us about your biggest success so far. 

We have partnered with 12 of the top maternity and baby brands in the industry to offer expectant families discounts and products.

What is your top challenge and how have you addressed it?

Building and scaling Sona without outside funding. Bootstrapping in healthcare is especially challenging given the technical, compliance and trust requirements, but it has pushed me to be resourceful and intentional with every decision. We focus on building real value first, with technology that solves problems for both providers and patients. We then generate revenue through partnerships and subscriptions to grow sustainably.

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What is your biggest tip for other startup entrepreneurs? 

Talk to others who’ve already been through it. You can save yourself countless hours and avoid some painful mistakes by learning from those who are a few steps ahead of you. The best advice I’ve gotten has come from other founders who were generous enough to share what worked (and what didn’t). Those conversations have been invaluable.

How do you find inspiration on your darkest days?

My team. Their excitement and belief in what we’re building always lift me up. Surrounding myself with people who share that energy has been the key to pushing through and growing stronger.

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What is your go-to song to get motivated on tough days?

This past year, I’ve been more into podcasts to get me motivated. But I do really enjoy “Straight and Narrow” by Sam Barber. My kids love it, too, and it reminds me of them while also pumping me up. 

Who is your most important role model? 

My dad. He built a large and successful ultrasound service business from the ground up when his fifth child was just 2 years old, and his oldest was only 10. Despite the demands of entrepreneurship, he always showed up for the moments that mattered most: Family dinners, bedtime, and every sports game he could make. Watching him build something from nothing while staying grounded in the family taught me that success isn’t just about growth, but about doing meaningful work without losing sight of what matters most.

Facebook: @Sona
Instagram: @Sona.app
LinkedIn: @Sona

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Pooja Patel, founder of Aging Together. (Credit: Sam Ring Photography)

1,000 Stories

She Supports Family Caregivers

Pooja Patel of Aging Together provides education and support services for family caregivers of aging parents.

May 21, 2025

By Victoria Flexner

Pooja Patel, an occupational therapist who is board-certified in gerontology, has worked on the frontlines of hospitals for nearly a decade. A gap she repeatedly saw was the lack of community-level awareness, knowledge and support for families when their loved ones are in the hospital. Patel, who also has certifications in dementia care and fall prevention,  witnessed firsthand how patient’s families are confronted with an onslaught of information – and how important decisions often need to be made under intense pressure. She decided she wanted to find a way to empower these families. In 2023, the Chicago-based Patel launched Aging Together, an online platform with resources for caregivers to help families navigate the complexities of aging and the American healthcare system. 

Editor’s Note: Aging Together has been named to The Story Exchange’s 2025 list of 10 Brilliant Business Ideas. 

How is your business different from others in your industry?

We are not a care-management or care-coordination practice. We are purely educational, and supportive.

Tell us about your biggest success so far. 

Building this practice from the ground up while pivoting three times to get to where we are today. We just launched our very first online 8-week education and support program for family caregivers and have 10 participants. After the first session, one participant said, “I’ve joined many groups like these, and this is the first one that hasn’t made me cry. They’re all so doom and gloom. Thank you so much for building and offering this.”

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What is your top challenge and how have you addressed it?

Marketing. We’re working on it and slowly improving with networking and an increased online presence.

Have you experienced any significant personal situations that have affected your business decisions?

Having endured Covid-19 on the frontlines of a large urban trauma center for over a year, I feel I’ve developed the resilience and ability to separate personal versus business needs. I’ve also been told that I’m very good at remaining practical under high-stress situations. I’m the person who runs the show during an emergency.

What is your biggest tip for other startup entrepreneurs? 

Your first idea is most likely not going to be what you actually end up building. I spent so much time trying to figure everything out before starting the practice, only to realize it’s not what I really wanted. Be curious. Learn the art of the pivot. 

How do you find inspiration on your darkest days?

I look to the many family caregivers I interact with on an almost daily basis. I look to my husband, who is a serial entrepreneur and has bootstrapped, grown and sold a number of businesses in the cybersecurity and AI space. He has had many dark moments, which I’ve experienced with him. This reassures me that there’s light on the other side

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What is your go-to song to get motivated on tough days?

I love Kelly Clarkson and Katy Perry.

Who is your most important role model? 

My parents.

Instagram: @agingtogetherpodcast
Facebook: @agingtogetherpodcast

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Suzanna Mannion, founder of Heart Alive Yoga & Retreats. (Credit: Courtesy of Heart Alive Yoga & Retreats)

1,000 Stories

Her Yoga Retreats and Women’s Circles Are Designed to Improve Wellbeing

Suzanna Mannion is the founder of Hearts Alive Yoga & Retreats, a startup offering clients community and calm.

February 13, 2025

By Victoria Flexner

During Covid lockdowns, Suzanna Mannion started experiencing anxiety. To help cope with the stress, she signed up for a yoga teacher training course, which ultimately led her to uncover a “deep calling to connect with my community in person, and share the self-care resources I worked hard to gain.” Marion decided to start offering live and virtual yoga classes – and with her background in design and marketing, she was able to quickly develop these efforts into a brand, Hearts Alive Yoga & Retreats. Today, the Pinole, California-based business owner has added to her offerings: She now hosts retreats, women’s circles and even somatic coaching, all with the goal of helping others tap into their own inner knowing. 

Here’s our lightly edited Q&A, from The Story Exchange 1,000+ Stories Project.

How is your business different from others in your industry?

I offer a unique selection of in-person and online offerings to support women’s wellness. Our yoga classes strengthen and calm the mind and body. Our women’s circles support a sense of connection in a deeply fragmented and loud world. Our retreats are like doing 40 therapy sessions in one weekend’s time. 

Tell us about your biggest success so far. 

Other than raising a healthy and happy child – starting a business that supports other people’s well-being. Launching my retreat retreat in 2023 and selling out both sessions was very fulfilling, as was hearing the feedback from attendees who loved the experience. 

What is your top challenge and how have you addressed it?

I am a right-brained visionary critter. I’ve had to figure out how to approach my accounting and bookkeeping with prowess.

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Have you experienced any significant personal situations that have affected your business decisions?

If my business wants to expand – and I believe it does – I will need to make a big decision about leaving my full-time job and going all in. 

What is your biggest tip for other startup entrepreneurs? 

Follow your passion. Keep the dream alive. Hire a coach to support you in the process, and to keep you accountable. Push past limiting fears. It can be done!

How do you find inspiration on your darkest days?

I send voice notes to friends. I lean on my therapist. I do yoga, aromatherapy, sound healing and journaling. And, I unplug from work! 

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What is your go-to song to get motivated on tough days?

“Sunroof” by Nicky Youre and dazy. 

Who is your most important role model? 

My somatic therapist, Satya Aune Gita. She’s a yoga teacher, bodyworker, retreat leader and amazing at her work.

Instagram: @heartsaliveyoga
Facebook: @heartsaliveyoga

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Madhavi Parikh, founder of I-SPIE Health. (Credit: Courtesy of I-SPIE Health)

1,000 Stories

She Provides Emotional Support to Those Battling Cancer

Madhavi Parikh founded I-SPIE Health to provide holistic guidance to individuals and their loved ones throughout their cancer journeys.

December 18, 2024

By Victoria Flexner

Madhavi Parikh knows oncologists treat the body when someone is diagnosed with cancer – but, she wondered, who was helping cancer patients through the emotional challenges of the disease? In 2023, the Charlotte, North Carolina-based business owner launched I-SPIE Health, which provides holistic emotional support and compassionate clinical coaching to help cancer patients – and their families – discover the tools they need to mentally and spiritually fight cancer. 

Here’s our lightly edited Q&A, from The Story Exchange 1,000+ Stories Project.

How is your business different from others in your industry?

We know that a life touched by cancer is a life that is changed forever. Life becomes a physical and emotional rollercoaster. I coach my clients through their cancer journeys through a mix of education and empowerment, then embolden them with the knowledge and tools needed to make informed decisions – that they might live their lives with resilience and hope. 

Tell us about your biggest success so far. 

Positive testimonials from clients who I have helped – those are what I strive for. 

What is your top challenge and how have you addressed it?

Getting the word out about my services. I am addressing it by networking, connecting with people who have insider insight, and taking in enlightening materials about marketing.

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Have you experienced any significant personal situations that have affected your business decisions?

When I lost my day job, I lost an important source of income. Although I know that you have to spend money to make money, it is difficult all the same to borrow money when you have a difficult time paying it off. Additionally, I do not have any experience being an entrepreneur. Learning the business of business is a mindset that I am still cultivating.

What is your biggest tip for other startup entrepreneurs? 

Lean into the kindness that is out there. Even if you do, though, it is not going to be easy – be prepared to learn a lot.

How do you find inspiration on your darkest days?

Surrender to the knowledge that the universe always has your best interests at heart. Don’t be fearful of the unknown. 

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What is your go-to song to get motivated on tough days?

I listen to Binaural Beats.

Who is your most important role model?

I have created a unique model to help individuals on their cancer journey. I have done so by learning from each and every individual and experience that has crossed my path – and thus, I truly believe that all of them have been influential.

Facebook: @ISPIEHealth
LinkedIn: @ISPIEHealth

The post She Provides Emotional Support to Those Battling Cancer appeared first on The Story Exchange.

Cathy Bissell, founder of BISSELL Pet foundation. (Credit: Courtesy of BISSELL Pet Foundation)

1,000 Stories

Finding Forever Homes for America’s Animals

Cathy Bissell’s national animal welfare organization works with partners across the U.S. to reduce the number of animals in shelters, while providing free spaying and neutering programs.

November 21, 2024

By Victoria Flexner

Cathy Bissell started the BISSELL Pet Foundation in 2011, with the goal of addressing the growing problem of pet homelessness. She was inspired by her own experiences with adopting rescue pets, and wanted to help reduce the number of animals in shelters overall by supporting animal adoption efforts and spay/neuter programs. Her goal, when starting up, was to ultimately save as many animals’ lives as possible. Over the years, the foundation has helped hundreds of thousands of pets find homes. Now, Bissell continues to work with shelters, rescues and veterinarians across the U.S. to provide communities – including their furriest members – with essential resources.

Here’s our lightly edited Q&A, from The Story Exchange 1,000+ Stories Project.

How is your business different from others in your industry?

For starters, 100% of every dollar donated to us goes directly to save pets. We don’t use donations for administrative costs, marketing, or anything else. It’s really meaningful for our donors, and something most nonprofits cannot say. We’re a smaller organization, but sometimes small organizations can make a bigger impact because there is no bureaucracy, no layers of approval, or other obstacles to take action. 

What is your biggest success to date?

Our Empty the Shelters program – the largest-funded adoption program in the nation. Since 2016, our reduced-fee adoption events have helped find homes for more than 300,000 pets from 800 participating organizations in 48 states, as well as in Canada. The large-scale nature of the program brings awareness to adoption and gets people to visit their local shelter to see pets waiting to be loved. Empty the Shelters has helped change the public perception of adoption, and is a lifesaver for our partners.

We also have a new spay/neuter program called Fix the Future, which is on track to be a monumental success. Through Fix the Future, we deploy veterinarians across the country to provide low-cost or no-cost access to spay/neuter for shelters and pet owners who struggle to find and afford needed care. In just fourteen months, Fix the Future has on-boarded over 300 veterinarians to our network, and has helped more than 66,000 pets from 30 states, preventing millions of unplanned kittens and puppies.

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What is your top challenge and how have you addressed it?

Funding. Even though we have accomplished so much with our existing programs, we could assist more pets and communities with more money. The reality is that the demand for our programs is outpacing our funding, and we need support to make a bigger difference. We are working hard to tell our story to potential donors, foundations and corporations so they will understand the need and the impact their financial gift can make. 

Have you experienced any significant personal situations that have affected your business decisions?:

Over the years, I have brought many pets into my home that weren’t thriving in the shelter, or that needed significant medical attention. I have cared for them, driven them to doctors and specialists, and helped them recover until they were ready to be a family pet. My personal experiences helped me understand how much every life counts and that I must do all I can for them. 

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What is your biggest tip for other startup entrepreneurs? 

You have to have passion. Whether you are leading a nonprofit or a corporation, if you don’t believe in what you are doing, you will burn out or let obstacles get in your way. Passion will give you the courage to try bold things, and will help you be open to turning setbacks into opportunities.

How do you find inspiration on your darkest days?

We see and learn about many heartbreaking situations, and often, I lie awake at night thinking about them. While I can’t save every pet, the knowledge that I can take action to save more of them is my driving force, every day. I believe humans have an ethical responsibility to care for domesticated animals – cats and dogs are dependent on humans for survival. They need caring people who can be their voice. They are my inspiration, and I can’t let them down.

What is your go-to song to get motivated on tough days?

“Don’t Stop Believing’” by Journey.

Who is your most important role model?

My mother. She instilled in me a strong sense of responsibility and compassion, which has shaped my commitment to giving back. Her values, combined with her support and encouragement, inspired me to use my platform to make a positive difference in the world and played a significant role in my decision to start my foundation. She is 91 years old and going strong. She inspires me and everyone who knows her.

Instagram: @Bissellpets
Facebook: @Bissellpets

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Stephanie Kaiser, founder of Saymore. (Credit: Courtesy of Saymore)

1,000 Stories

Providing Support and Understanding Through a Virtual Community

Stephanie Kaiser launched her online wellness hub, Saymore, to connect like-minded individuals to discuss nuanced topics in a safe space.

October 30, 2024

By Victoria Flexner

By the time Stephanie Kaiser left her career in finance, her mental health was in poor condition. Years of stress, burnout and workplace harassment had left her searching for resources that would help her as she healed her mind and spirit. Kaiser told us, “I felt most connected to people who had also experienced depression,” and that “while I had a great support system, they did not know how to help me” – nor did those closest to her understand exactly what she was going through. Last year, Kaiser decided to create the very platform she needed, and launched Saymore, an online mental wellness community that helps people with shared experiences and mental health struggles provide support, guidance and friendship to one another. Today, the Naples, Florida, entrepreneur is expanding her reach through in-person events and roundtable discussions. 

Here’s our lightly edited Q&A, from The Story Exchange 1,000+ Stories Project.

How is your business different from others in your industry?

Our community-based approach to mental wellness. We provide a space where individuals with similar curiosities, challenges and goals can connect and support each other.

Unlike traditional mental health platforms like Better Help or Headspace, we emphasize shared experiences and peer support, fostering a sense of belonging and understanding.

Tell us about your biggest success so far. 

Working with Chief, a women’s network based in New York City, to put together a women’s health roundtable around miscarriages. I am thrilled to be able to facilitate such conversations and provide women with the spaces and conversations they need to heal.

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What is your top challenge and how have you addressed it?

Getting the word out, especially since there are so many different platforms focused on mental health on the internet. Working against the algorithms on a budget can prove especially challenging. We have now kicked off a series of in-person roundtables across New York City, each focused on specific health and wellness challenges. People have been so eager for, and receptive to, these conversations – it really shows that there is a gap that needs to be filled. 

Have you experienced any significant personal situations that have affected your business decisions?

I used to work in finance, where my mental health really suffered. I was sexually harassed and discriminated against constantly. When Covid hit, I saw these huge movements asking for significant changes within the system. I wanted to do something similarly good for the world, rather than letting dollars direct my life.

What is your biggest tip for other startup entrepreneurs? 

Just go for it – especially if you are a woman! I always think about how much better the world would be if women could start businesses just as easily as men do. If you believe in your idea, then I guarantee there are many more people out there who will, too. You just have to find them.

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How do you find inspiration on your darkest days?

The people I work with. I am so grateful for my board of advisors, my mentors and my team. Because the nature of my business is so personal, it has been easier for me to find individuals who believe in the work we are doing. 

What is your go-to song to get motivated on tough days?

“Killshot” by Eminem.

Who is your most important role model?

Megan Rapinoe. She’s had an incredible career, while using her voice to stand up for what is right. She has never been quiet in the face of injustice, and has been integral to the growth of women’s soccer. I hope to always stay that passionate about mental health, and to make sure marginalized voices are being supported.

Instagram: @Saymore
LinkedIn: @Saymore

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The post Providing Support and Understanding Through a Virtual Community appeared first on The Story Exchange.

Shara Cohen, founder of Cancer Care Parcel. (Credit: Courtesy of Cancer Care Parcel)

1,000 Stories

Her Company Lends Thoughtful Support to Cancer Patients

Shara Cohen created Cancer Care Parcel to make life a little bit easier for people undergoing cancer treatments.

October 16, 2024

By Victoria Flexner

Shara Cohen launched her business, Cancer Care Parcel, after receiving her own cancer diagnosis in 2016. During her treatments, she noticed a lack of thoughtful, practical support options for patients – ones she would have appreciated, that focused on providing relief and relaxation. The London-based founder drew from those personal experiences, as well as those of other survivors, to curate care packages that better speak to the specific physical and emotional needs of cancer patients. Cohen says her experience with cancer has made her more empathetic on the whole, and determined to create a business and a product that can make the journey easier for others. 

Here’s our lightly edited Q&A, from The Story Exchange 1,000+ Stories Project.

How is your business different from others in your industry?

We create care packages specifically designed for cancer patients, ones that are tailored to their unique emotional and physical needs. Unlike generic gift baskets, our products are thoughtfully curated by other cancer patients, survivors, and healthcare professionals to provide comfort, reduce stress, and support healing.

Tell us about your biggest success so far. 

The overwhelming positive feedback. Seeing the impact our care packages have on people’s lives, especially during such a difficult time, has been incredibly rewarding. We’ve received countless messages from patients expressing how our packages provided much-needed comfort when they needed it most.

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What is your top challenge and how have you addressed it?

Raising awareness about the importance of non-medical support for cancer patients among the general public. Many people, even including those close to cancer patients, often focus primarily on the medical treatments, not realizing how much emotional and practical support is also needed during the journey.

To address this, we built partnerships with cancer organizations, used social media to share personal stories and testimonials from patients, and collaborated with influencers in the cancer community to spread the word. This has helped us break through misconceptions and demonstrate the value of what we do.

Have you experienced any significant personal situations that affected your business decisions? 

My cancer diagnosis in 2016 forced me to reevaluate my priorities and consider how I could make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

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What is your biggest tip for other startup entrepreneurs? 

Stay flexible and open to change. Your initial plan might not always be the final path your business takes. When I started, I thought success would come from sticking closely to my original vision, but over time I realized that adapting to new information, customer needs and market shifts is crucial for growth.

How do you find inspiration on your darkest days?

By reminding myself of the impact my work has on others. Knowing that I’m making a real difference in people’s lives helps me push through difficult times. I also lean on my support network of family, friends and colleagues who help me stay focused on the bigger picture.

What is your go-to song to get motivated on tough days?

“Let It Go” from the movie “Frozen.” As an entrepreneur, there are always challenges and setbacks to grapple with, but this song helps me change my mindset and find the strength to keep pushing ahead. It’s a reminder to embrace change, let go of perfection, and trust the process.

Who is your most important role model?

Harvey Milk, the late activist and politician. I admire him not just for his work on behalf of the LGBTQ+ community, but for his courage to stand up for marginalized voices, and his relentless pursuit of equality. What inspires me most about Milk was his ability to create change by bringing people together, encouraging dialogue, and building inclusive communities. His belief in fighting for the rights of others, even when facing significant personal risks, resonates deeply with my own mission.

Instagram: @cancercareparcel
Facebook: @cancercareparcel
LinkedIn: @cancercareparcel

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The post Her Company Lends Thoughtful Support to Cancer Patients appeared first on The Story Exchange.