Sonya Sasser

Hello, I am Sonya—Jeremy Fowler’s mother, a professional, and above all, a survivor.

In June 1996, the weight of a failing second marriage and the financial burden of managing bipolar disorder became too much to bear. When I could no longer afford my appointments and medication, I stopped taking my medication cold turkey. That choice triggered a critical mental health crisis and a suicide attempt. At my lowest point, I truly believed my children and the world would be better off without me.

But after several hospitalizations, everything changed. I was introduced to Vocational Rehabilitation. They didn't just help me; alongside my own deep willingness to get better, they saved me. They invested in my future—paying for my education, job placement, a work wardrobe, and my weekly travel to Charleston for three months. 

Through that program, and the unwavering love of my family and friends, enabled me to build a successful career in the hospitality industry, proving that mental health conditions, when managed with proper support, can coexist with professional excellence. People often joke about the industry, but for me, it was a perfect fit: it's a place where turning the smiles and niceness on and off on a dime is a professional superpower. I am here today to prove that with the right support, recovery is not just possible—success is, too. 

Losing my son so tragically really made me question my mental stability and my faith. 

Losing faith is very heavy, painful, and definitely leaves you in a lonely state. I had to remember he was not my only child. I had to find strength for the girls also. 

Isaiah 41:10

"So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand"