Lyndsay Fogarty
In partnership with AdventHealth for Women, we’re recognizing some of the women in our community who are selflessly giving to others while raising families, supporting their loved ones and building their careers. Whether they know it or not, their stories inspire other women in their shoes.
As the leader of the cheer and dance programs at Bishop Moore Catholic High School, Shannon Lambert is a mentor to student-athletes, both in their sport and their faith. She also volunteers with the AdventHealth chaplain. Last year, she felt called to minister to the elderly and so she began taking courses to become a CNA in order to meet requirements for serving this population in the hospital environment.
What is your WHY?
Life is tough in some way for everyone and I learned early on in my life that you do not have to become a product of your environment. However, it would require goal setting, a game plan, hard work, and to always stay true to yourself and values. As I matured (age is not in my dictionary), I recognized my happiest moments were when I was helping others, my family, friends, or strangers it was rewarding. Of course, God’s work!
I started serving those that felt lost and or struggled with poor self-image and when that wasn’t enough, I heard the call to care for the elderly. It was COVID quarantine so I took on-line courses and became a caregiver for those that most put aside; one of my greatest ministries yet.
I have state championship and national titles, but none measure up to the moments when you are thanked for making a difference in a life, or a life lesson taught in the class I facilitate saved a college student from taking their own life when they reflected on my words, or the ninety-two year old patient that refers to me his Angel.
On your toughest of days, what motivates you to put one foot in front of the other?
It’s simple; for the love of others. I enjoy seeing people grow, get healthy and learn to love and accept who they are. I pray daily that those I encounter will get a glimpse of Jesus in me.
Have you drawn inspiration from other women? Tell us about someone who has inspired you?
My grandmother; I am the oldest of over 115 grandchildren and she was firm, kind and loving. She prayed daily and was always there for her family; qualities I respect. However, Mother Teresa has always inspired me and her story keeps me focused. She was a true servant and did not waiver on her virtues and those qualities radiated in all she did. She accomplished great things for the suffering and poor; her work made a difference in the lives of others. When I feel tired, overwhelmed and simply out of time, she reminds me of my goal to be a worthy servant striving to make a difference in the lives of others. I live by her “Do it Anyway” philosophy.
What is the one word that perfectly explains who you are?
I would hope “SELFLESS”, but for sure Faithful.
Would you change anything about how you have handled challenges or successes thus far in your life?
Yes, I often lose sight of how things became a challenge because I try to focus on the positives, sometimes neglecting the failure. Although, I would not change the challenges, I would like to be more mindful of why they became a challenge to avoid in the future. As for my successes, my whole being, good and bad has been a success, as they define who I am today. Like it or not, this is me.
What are you most proud of?
The fact, that my love and trust in God has always stood firm. I can recognize Him in all I am called to do and He calls often and it makes the work uplifting. How can you deny being proud when someone says you are an answer to their prayers or heaven sent? I just have to be careful my ego never gets the best of me. (EGO: edging God out)
What is the biggest challenge you have faced and what did you learn from it?
That I can love, guide, mentor, and give all I have to someone and they may not recognize or appreciate me and all I do. But Mother Teresa says it best, “DO IT ANYWAY”. I have learned it’s not just for them it’s for me, and I’m happy. Tired, but, satisfied.
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