In this episode of The CARTI Hopecast, host Adam Head sits down with LaKisha Johnson—educator, author, speaker, and mother of five—to share her remarkable journey of love, loss, and living forward.

After losing her husband Eric to complications from sickle cell disease and pulmonary hypertension, LaKisha faced the challenge of raising five sons while navigating grief, financial strain, and identity transformation. Through deeply personal reflection, she discusses the layers of caregiving, the mental toll of loss, and what it took to rediscover herself while holding her family together. Her story is a powerful reminder that hope, healing, and strength often grow from the hardest seasons of life.

Takeaways:

• Lakisha Johnson's journey exemplifies the profound strength that can emerge from personal loss and adversity, showcasing her resilience in the face of overwhelming challenges.
• The importance of community support and vulnerability becomes evident as Lakisha emphasizes the necessity of sharing one's story to inspire and uplift others navigating similar struggles.
• Lakisha's transformation from a grieving widow to an empowered advocate highlights the potential for growth and purpose following life's most difficult transitions.
• Through her narrative, she illustrates the concept that endings often signify new beginnings, urging listeners to embrace the continuous journey of life with hope and courage.
• Lakisha underscores the significance of recognizing one's inner strength during times of hardship, promoting the idea that personal trials can cultivate deep-seated courage and faith.
• The podcast reveals the profound impact of a supportive partner on personal development, as Lakisha reflects on her husband's influence and the wisdom he imparted to their family.

Referenced in this episode:

• The Launch: 10 Day Devotional For Anyone Who Wants To Start Anything
• Coffee and Conversations with LaKisha

Founded in 1976, CARTI delivers leading-edge cancer care in a compassionate, patient-centered environment. Our mission is to make trusted cancer care accessible for every patient we serve through compassion, innovation, and purpose.

The CARTI Hopecast shares authentic, meaningful stories that focus on human experiences. Every day, we see patients and families navigating unimaginable hardships, sometimes feeling alone in their journey. Through The Hopecast, listeners hear stories of resilience and transformation, fostering a sense of connection and hope.