Donya Dawson: Survivor's Story, Journaling & Healing

Welcome back to The Healing Pen and a Mic Companion Podcast! In the second episode, Talaya Dendy sits down with Donya Dawson, a courageous cancer survivor, proud member of the Rondo community, and dedicated public servant with the State of Minnesota.

Live from the Mali Center in St. Paul, Donya shares her transformative journey of healing and empowerment following her breast cancer diagnosis. Donya discusses how her experience ignited a belief in creating spaces for connection, healing, and encouragement, a value deeply embedded in her work.

Tune in to hear Donya's inspiring story, learn the benefits of journaling for emotional healing, and discover the importance of support systems and resources for those navigating their own health challenges. Her work is grounded in the belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to reach their next level of leadership, and she embodies the value of paying it forward. whether by making connections, offering help, or asking for support because true strength is built in community.

Whether you're on a healing journey or supporting someone who is, this episode offers hope, inspiration, and tips on harnessing the power of words for well-being.

Support Our Mission / Partner With Us:

• Bring Healing to Your Community: Interested in hosting The Healing Pen and a Mic workshop in your city or organization? We'd love to partner with you!

• Sponsor Future Workshops: Help us continue offering these much-needed, workshops to the cancer community.

For partnership or sponsorship inquiries, please email us at [e-mail].

💜Thank you to the St. Paul chapter of the Awesome Foundation for sponsoring this episode and the Healing Pen and a Mic workshop. Your support makes this life-changing work possible!

✨Episode Highlights:

• 01:10 Donya's Journey: From Diagnosis to Empowerment

• 02:59 Navigating Treatment: Trials, Triumphs, and Turning Points

• 06:41 The Healing Pen: How Journaling Fueled Her Recovery

• 09:26 Building Bridges: Advice for Overcoming Isolation & Finding Support

Transcript: https://bit.ly/healingpen2

Connect & Engage with Donya:

Website: https://healingrootsacc.com

Upcoming Event on 2/7/2026: https://healingrootsacc.com/upcoming-events

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Hosted, Produced, Written, and Edited by: Talaya Dendy

Disclaimer: The information on this podcast is for general informational purposes only and SHOULD NOT be used as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, evaluation, or care from your physician or other qualified health care provider.

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