Episode 05: Fireside Dining Room Chat with Aunty Norma and Uncle Dan

Kathy Hoolahan's journey is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the profound impact of family, whether biological or chosen. In this fireside dining room chat with Aunty Norma and Uncle Dan, we witness how a troubled childhood can be transformed by the compassion, acceptance, and protection of individuals who genuinely care.

Kathy's life was marred by a turbulent upbringing within the Jehovah's Witness faith. She grappled with the stifling constraints of this religion and her parent's inability to accept her desire to step away from it. Aunty Norma and Uncle Dan's immediate acceptance, belief in Kathy's potential, and unwavering protection created an environment that allowed her to heal and grow. 

As they reflect on their shared past, it is clear that Aunty Norma and Uncle Dan's impact on Kathy's life is immeasurable. Their unconditional love and support guided her through a challenging period, ultimately empowering her to escape the clutches of her traumatic past. Her experience demonstrates that even in the face of adversity being "raised by an invisible village" can make all the difference. 

Quotes

"To get off the plane and then go to strangers, but then feel connected at the same time. I instantly felt safe and accepted." -Kathy Hoolahan

"There are so many other complexities in the story of mine right at that point in time, it would have been difficult for anyone to really manage." -Kathy Hoolahan

"The social welfare or police didn't enlighten us on how to approach you. All I could do is treat you the same as we treated our own children." -Aunty Norma

"I know what religions can do to people, I hear it all the time, where the kids are forced to follow on and the parents decide whether they like it or not." -Uncle Dan

Resources:

Raised By An Invisible Village Episode 04: The Aftermath Consequences

WHERE TO FIND KATHY HOOLAHAN

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OurInvisibleVillage
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ourinvisiblevillage/ 
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/invis_village