by Kerrie Atherton | Aug 11, 2025 | Mental Health, Podcasts, Stories of Hope
Tes Cruz’s world was shattered when she lost her husband—a devastating loss that brought grief, isolation, and overwhelming pain. In the depths of her struggle, she faced the crushing weight of mental health challenges that many experience but few speak about openly. Yet from this heartbreak, Tes discovered her mission: to become a voice and an advocate for mental health.
In this deeply moving episode of Stories of Hope – Inspiring Humans with Kerrie Atherton, Tes shares her personal journey of grief and the process of rebuilding life after loss. She opens up about the stigma around mental health, especially in the wake of tragedy, and why she chose to transform her suffering into service.
Tes now dedicates her life to helping others who are navigating mental health struggles. By speaking publicly and advocating for change, she shines a light on the importance of awareness, compassion, and accessible support. Her courage not only honors her late husband but also inspires countless others to seek help and know they are not alone.
Her story demonstrates the power of turning pain into purpose. Tes Cruz reminds us that even in the darkest moments, hope can be reborn—not by ignoring grief, but by allowing it to fuel a mission of healing.
This episode is a tribute to resilience and the human capacity to rise from loss with renewed determination to help others find the light.
by Kerrie Atherton | Dec 9, 2024 | Empower, Mental Health, Podcasts
In this stirring and profoundly inspiring episode of Stories of HOPE, Kerrie Atherton welcomes Ben Farinazzo—a decorated veteran, Invictus Games gold medalist, and passionate mental health advocate whose story is a testament to resilience, vulnerability, and the healing power of human connection.
Ben’s journey began more than 20 years ago when he served as an army officer in East Timor. Like many who return from combat zones, Ben came home carrying the invisible wounds of service—post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety. For over a decade, he suffered in silence, trapped beneath the surface of a life that looked successful on the outside but was unraveling within. His battle with mental illness remained largely hidden, as he tried to live up to the ingrained expectations of stoicism and strength.
Then, in what he now describes as a pivotal turning point, Ben suffered a devastating mountain biking accident that left him with a broken neck and back. Immobilized and vulnerable, he was finally forced to confront the mental and emotional scars he had carried for years. It was in this moment—one of complete physical and psychological fragility—that Ben began his true journey of healing.
In this episode, Ben speaks openly about his time in a mental health hospital, the dark days that tested his spirit, and the turning point that led him to fight for his wellbeing—not just for himself, but for those who might walk a similar path. His honesty about the internal battles of PTSD, his periods of isolation, and the weight of unprocessed trauma is both sobering and incredibly moving.
What follows is a remarkable story of recovery, hope, and transformation. Ben shares how the Invictus Games became not just a sporting event, but a life-altering experience of camaraderie, acceptance, and purpose. Representing Australia in indoor rowing and powerlifting, Ben rediscovered his strength—not just physically, but emotionally and spiritually. The sense of belonging he found among other wounded warriors reignited his belief in the human spirit and what it means to be truly seen and supported.
Throughout the conversation, Ben emphasizes the importance of consistent self-care—sleep, movement, mindfulness—and the necessity of breaking down toxic notions of masculinity. He speaks passionately about the value of support networks, open communication, and asking for help without shame. His story challenges the idea that vulnerability is weakness, and instead, reframes it as one of the greatest forms of strength.
Ben Farinazzo’s voice is one of lived wisdom, compassion, and gentle courage. His message is clear: no matter how deep the struggle, hope is never out of reach—and sometimes, your lowest point can become the foundation for your greatest comeback.
