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December 10th, 2025 Mature Content

Promise to Make a Difference

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  1. Promise to Make a Difference Deana Brown Mitchell 44:15

In this Scars to Stars™ episode, John K. Bates opens up about surviving not just one, but multiple life-threatening Health crises; first nearly Dying from Stevens-Johnson Syndrome, and years later enduring a severe post-surgery infection that spiraled into clinical Depression, Anxiety, and akathisia.

He shares candidly what it’s like to lose hope, to quietly consider ending it all, and to feel like joy and normalcy are gone forever. How one promise he made to “make a difference” and one person telling him, “You’re going to be okay,” helped him hold on. John’s story is a powerful reminder that our intuition matters, our pain is real, and that even in the darkest seasons, healing and purpose can return. This conversation is for anyone who has felt invisible inside their own struggle and needs to know, deeply, that they are not alone and that conversations truly can save lives.

 #scarstostars #suicideprevention #mentalhealthawareness #conversations #community #personalstory #havetheconversation #savealifechallenge #virtualevents #amazonbestseller #suicideawareness #mentalhealthmatters #kindnessmatters #Stevens-JohnsonSyndrome #infection #depression #anxiety #akathisia

Deana Brown Mitchell Entrepreneur and Mental Health Advocate

DEANA BROWN MITCHELL is a driven, optimistic, and compassionate leader in all areas of her life.

As a three-decade event professional and an award-winning entrepreneur, Deana authentically shares her experiences for the benefit of others.
Starting in college, Deana worked her way through the hospitality and event industry, from food & beverage, to banquets and conference services, to owning her own DMC (Destination Management Company) for 10 years.
She has an impressive client list of Fortune 100-500 companies and eleven awards to show her creativity and execution abilities!

Her work as a consultant, allows her to use her unique perspective on customizing a path forward for any situation.

Also, Deana is the Founder and Executive Director of The Realize Foundation. She is a suicide survivor herself, and vulnerably uses her own mental health journey to let others know there is hope. The Realize Foundation produces events, a podcast, and a bestselling book series that let people know they are not alone.

Find out more about Deana's endeavors at https://deanabrownmitchell.com/