Center Stage 2014
A couple weeks ago, Mike Thompson, the Executive Director of The Center Palm Springs asked me if I would tell my story to the 600 guests of their Center Stage 2014 fund raiser.
I thought about it for 24 hours and said yes.
I thought it would be difficult to do, but I believe and love the work that the Center does for this community. This is the speech I delivered last night.
Hi I’m Tobby and this is my story.
I own a business called Technology Angelz, and last year The Center, more specifically The Center’s Counseling department – Dr. Gover and her counseling team – were my Angels. I can honestly say I would not be here tonight had I not utilized their services.
In 2010 I moved to Palm Springs from Australia with my partner of 15 years. At the start of 2013, after 18 years together, we parted ways. He chose to move back to Australia and I chose to stay.
I didn’t want to leave my new home. There’s something special about this community that I had not experienced anywhere else I had lived. That rang true with the departure of my ex. People would call me – even my customers – wanting to check-in to be sure I was doing ok. I am glad they did, as my life started to crumble around me. Happiness was replaced with anxiety attacks, which became debilitating. Last year I understood how people can just snap.
The anxiety attacks I was having left me unable to function. I couldn’t even pay my bills or do my groceries. Things were hard, especially at night – I became afraid of the dark. I clearly recall having a dinner invitation, and I could not find my keys – I broke down thinking – If I cant find my keys how do I expect to live on my own as well as run my business.
Those thoughts began to change after I started counseling sessions at The Center. Within 3 visits I immediately started to feel better and the anxiety attacks stopped. My counselor helped me get back on my feet and look at the bigger picture. We started to plan my future. I felt like I woke up, I was awake with a new energy.
I recall telling my counselor before our last session that I had been smitten by someone new. That someone was Tony and I am happy to report that we have been together almost 18 months. We are happy. I am happy. Without a doubt, The Center not only saved my life, it has helped me live my life.
And what I learned from my experience, don’t be afraid to ask for help. In fact, I learned it’s okay to ask for help. And now I am here to ask for yours. Please give to The Center, and give generously, so we can continue to have the Center as the Heart of our community.
Thank you.
I would do it again at the drop of a hat.