Steve Hodgson’s Burnout, Anxiety and Depression Recovery
The story of Steve Hodgson burnout recovery mental health first aid coach is a powerful reminder that even when life feels impossible, healing and renewal are possible. Once a top real estate agent, husband, and father of five, Steve’s success masked a hidden struggle...
Leeson Timms: Loneliness. Toxic Masculinity and Mens Mental Health
The story of Leeson Timms toxic masculinity loneliness young men mental health Man Cave hope is a powerful reminder of why connection and compassion matter. At just 22, Leeson has already faced the deep struggles of isolation, harmful online influence, and despair....
Tim Smith on Surviving Prison and Rebuilding His Life
The Story of Tim Smith: Resilience, Survival, and HopeThe story of Tim Smith resilience prison survival suicide loss recovery hope is a powerful reminder that even the deepest wounds can be transformed into strength. From a small-town boy in Queensland to life...
Jackie Schatz Addiction Recovery: Privilege to Prison to Purpose
The story of Jackie Schatz Addiction Recovery is a moving reminder that no life is beyond repair.From a privileged childhood in Singapore to television fame and modelling success, Jackie’s world appeared perfect. But hidden beneath was the heartbreak of eating...
Dinesh Palipana Disability Resilience: Finding Freedom After Loss
The story of Dinesh Palipana Disability Resilience reveals how he overcame a devastating spinal cord injury and depression. In this episode, he shares how determination, advocacy, and hope allowed him to reclaim purpose as a doctor. His inspiring journey proves that freedom after loss is possible when resilience and courage lead the way.
Tes Cruz: From Loss to Mental Health Advocacy & Hope
Tes Cruz lost her husband but found purpose as a mental health advocate. In this powerful episode, she shares her journey through grief and her mission to raise awareness, fight stigma, and bring hope to others. Her story reminds us that out of profound loss can come resilience, healing, and the courage to help others.
Drunk Driving, Jail & Recovery – Zac Jones’ Story of Hope
Zac Jones’ drunk driving arrest sent him to jail—but it also saved his life. In this episode, he shares how hitting rock bottom forced him to confront his addiction and choose recovery. His inspiring journey shows that consequences can become turning points, and that hope and purpose can emerge from the darkest mistakes.
Danny Lloyd on Addiction Recovery & Becoming a Soldier of Hope
Danny Lloyd opens up about his journey through addiction, recovery, and his mission to support others. In this inspiring conversation, he explains how resilience and service helped him reclaim his life and why he calls himself a “Soldier of Hope.” His story is a powerful reminder that recovery fuels not only personal healing but also hope for others.
Domestic Violence Advocate Jo Mason Breaks the Silence
Domestic violence survivor Jo Mason shares her courageous story and her mission as an advocate. In this inspiring episode, she reveals the struggles of leaving abuse, the resilience it takes to rebuild, and the power of speaking out. Her voice is a reminder that silence protects abusers, but truth and courage protect survivors.
Behind Locked Doors: Rhys Kirk on the Human Side of Mental Health Wards
Some fear mental health wards, others carry trauma from them—but for many, they’re places of safety and hope. In this powerful episode, occupational therapist Rhys Kirk shares what it’s really like behind locked doors. Through stories of trauma, recovery, and compassion, he reminds us that healing is possible—and sometimes, all it takes is presence.
Testimonials
“Stories of Hope is one of the best community events on the Sunshine Coast, it’s monthly gathering at The Sands Tavern Maroochydore is free and it brings the local community together in a safe environment where people get to share their stories of hope such as overcoming tragedy, family loss, addiction, mental illness, overcoming serious injury or sickness to name a few.
The host/creator of Stories of Hope Kerrie Atherton does an amazing job, do yourself a favour and come to the next event.”
I’m so glad I was introduced to Stories of Hope and last night was so inspirational to hear two different stories of resilience and hope. I’m sure everyone who attended went home with a message of hope and understanding that no matter how difficult life can get for us, there is always hope we can hang onto. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of it.
The message that “you are not alone” is a cry from Kerrie Atherton’s heart. By hearing the stories, one can feel secure in the knowledge that there are others out there who have overcome challenging circumstances. A marvellous divinely inspired imitative that ignites hope and courage to press on in life. Potentially life changing!”
“I first went to Stories of HOPE in March 2017 after coming through a serious illness. It was so good to feel a part of something so special – ordinary people sharing extraordinary life experiences & how they overcame the difficulties they faced. It is wonderful to see how the event has grown in the last year, the stories are inspiring & connect people on so many levels.
It truly shows what happens when someone finds their passion & purpose in life through their own suffering. Awesome 
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