LIVING LIFE AFTER A TRAUMATIC ALTERING EXPERIENCE

Adjusting to life following chronic health conditions, illnesses, or traumatic experiences, such as witnessing violence, can present challenges. Each individual’s experience with chronic health issues or trauma varies, resulting in different adjustments and stressors that may influence mental health.

This organization was established with the intention of inclusivity, regardless of health condition, and aims to promote integrative, complementary, and alternative medicine (CAM) as part of daily routines. Introductory information and resources are provided, particularly for community members who might not have access to or familiarity with these practices.
Mental stress and chronic health conditions impact individuals across all age groups. The program seeks to encourage both survivors and caregivers to persist with their efforts. It offers support for everyday changes, including awareness-building, health education, and information on life traumas. The organization also provides guidance on how alternative and complementary therapies may assist with cognitive and physical health, healthy eating habits, and self-care strategies.

The Trazana A. Staples Foundation is dedicated to promoting integrative, alternative, and complementary practices—including yoga, tai chi, massage therapy, reiki, art and music therapy, chiropractic care, aquatic therapy, meditation, mindfulness, acupuncture, therapeutic gardening, and lifestyle guidance—within underserved communities. The foundation supplies information and educational resources about these approaches.

Programs do not have age restrictions due to the broad impact of chronic health conditions. Workshops are designed to provide hope and potentially enhance residents’ quality of life by integrating alternative therapies into daily activities, which may benefit physical, mental, and spiritual well-being over time.

The organization develops services that support community needs through resources focused on alternative, complementary, and integrative practices, as well as nutrition and healthy living education. The Trazana A. Staples Foundation’s mission is to inform communities about the potential benefits of these practices for prevention and recovery from trauma, prioritizing outreach to those without previous access or knowledge.

With funding from sources such as the United Way of Greater Cincinnati, Hamilton County Ohio Inspire Grant, and public contributions, the foundation collaborates with organizations like the Avondale Community Council, The Heights Movement, Cincinnati Recreation Commission, and the Powell Crosley Jr. YMCA. Initiatives include the Intergenerational Wellness Partners (IWP) Workshop Series and IWP Youth Symposium, along with other future community events.

The Intergenerational Wellness Partners (IWP) & IWP Youth Symposium programs—initiated by the Trazana A. Staples Foundation—serve to provide workshops for youth, adults, and families (ages 5 to 99+) in Cincinnati, Ohio. These workshops address prevention and management of health issues, chronic conditions, and trauma via lifestyle interventions and wellness practices. Sessions are offered free of charge and alternate between in-person and virtual formats, depending on weather conditions.

The IWP Workshop Series covers various topics, such as overall wellness, preventive care, nutrition, cooking, and exercise. Qualified professionals lead these interactive sessions, offering training, education, and materials spanning multiple disciplines.

These programs aim to assist participants and caregivers in making ongoing improvements in their daily lives. The workshops emphasize raising awareness, providing health education, addressing conditions affecting mental health, and presenting possible contributions of alternative practices to overall health and self-care. 

This work is informed by the founder's experience as a stroke survivor.
Trazana A. Staples is based in Cincinnati, Ohio. Her qualifications include a Master of Environmental Law and Policy Degree from Vermont Law School, a Bachelor of Science in Management and Human Relations from Trevecca Nazarene University, and an Associate of Science in Criminal Justice from Xavier University, Ohio. She is also an alumna of the Neighborhood Leadership Institute Cleveland, Class 31. Her advocacy centers on areas such as healthy food, food security, community engagement, and environmental sustainability. Staples is also recognized as an author, songwriter, and ecopreneur.

On October 3, 2017, Staples experienced a cryptogenic stroke accompanied by aphasia, attributed to stress. This event resulted in loss of possessions and employment. Through integrative wellness practices, she has achieved progress in regaining some mobility and cognitive functions.

Currently, Staples advocates for increased community awareness around stroke, mental health, and chronic health conditions. Her objectives include fostering understanding of integrative health practices and supporting healthier lifestyles, mental health, and nutritional education, while promoting natural living.

Staples acknowledges that traumatic health conditions can affect individuals regardless of demographic background. She maintains that recovery and wellness resources should be universally accessible and is committed to sharing her expertise within communities, with the stated mission of "Healing Our Communities One Neighborhood at A Time."