In this deeply heartfelt episode of The Circle of Hope, I reconnect with one of my favorite coaching partners, Donald Stup, for an intimate, live conversation about navigating life after a life-changing health diagnosis. Donald bravely shares his journey from discovering a tumor on his spinal cord to adapting to significant shifts in mobility—including time spent in a wheelchair and recovery from a broken hip. Our discussion goes far beyond medical procedures as Donald opens up about the real, daily mind games, fluctuating emotions, and the process of acceptance he’s faced along the way.

Throughout our talk, Donald and I explore the vital role that relationships play in helping us grow and thrive during adversity. He reflects on the invaluable support provided by his wife, faith, friends, and even unexpected acts of kindness from strangers. We dig into how simply being present and truly listening can be more transformative than any physical assistance. Our conversation also touches on the importance of workplace and spiritual support, and the unique perspective Donald brings as a coach, both giving and receiving guidance. Listeners will walk away inspired by Donald’s resilience and the actionable ways we can all build a stronger circle of hope around ourselves and each other.

Watch This If:

• You or a loved one is navigating a major health challenge or disability
• You want to deepen the quality of support you offer others
• You’re struggling to ask for or accept help
• You’re interested in the intersection of faith, coaching, and personal growth
• You work in healthcare, coaching, or support roles and want insight on truly impactful connection

Episode Highlights:

• [00:03:36] Donald shares his diagnosis and the moment everything changed after spinal surgery
• [00:06:01] Discussing the tremendous impact of his wife’s support and the different circles of trust
• [00:14:54] What true listening looks like—Donald’s experience with a neuro physical therapist
• [00:23:16] The “compassion with a command” moment: an unforgettable act of kindness from a stranger during travel
• [00:26:40] Navigating workplace accommodations and how colleagues step up with empathy
• [00:40:36] Donald’s reflections on faith, spirituality, and finding greater peace through acceptance
• [00:56:12] Advice for others navigating a new diagnosis or isolating situation—why reaching out matters

Quotes to Remember:

• “It was compassion with a command. She knew I needed something and was like, ‘Tell me what I can do to help.’” – Donald Stup
• “Sometimes it’s better not to say anything and just be there. Just be there for that person and listen.” – Donald Stup
• “When you struggle with something so bad that no matter what comes, you don’t say, ‘I give up’—that’s reassuring to know you really do belong.” – Donald Stup
• “The value of a person is being able to just reach out a hand—and knowing when to take it.” – Donald Stup

What You’ll Learn:

• The transformative power of true, attentive listening in times of crisis
• How to discern and build circles of trust and support around you
• Why acts of kindness—big or small—can have lifelong impact
• The essential roles of family, faith, and coaching in resilience
• Practical ways to show up for others facing visible or invisible challenges
• The importance of reaching out, not isolating, and what to do when support isn’t obvious
• How being present and still can foster unexpected inner peace and clarity

Stay Connected:

Guest: Donald Stup

• LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/donald-stup?original_referer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com%2F

Host: Valerie Hope

• Website:https://www.valeriehope.com
• Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/valeriehope/
• LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/valeriehope/
• Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/ValerieVHope
• Youtube:https://www.youtube.com/@ConnecttoJoy

Production Support: Lucy Hope - Podcast Editing, Copy, and Publishing.

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