Pathway of Hope: From Adversity to Achievement
The road to positivity was not always an easy one for Olu Abatan, but with a confident spirit, yearning for success, and an eagerness to make a difference after arriving in Toronto in 2015 was the motivation to push forward and overcome many hardships along the way.
The internal drive led the 42-year-old on a journey of going back to school, overcoming health concerns, and reaching out to The Salvation Army for life-altering support.
With years of nursing experience in Nigeria, West Africa, including working with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention there, rejoining the healthcare profession was a desired goal, but the process to meet Ontario qualifications is a long one. In the meantime, Olu pursued further post-secondary education, finishing two post-graduate programs back-to-back in human resource management and business management and entrepreneurship.
The pressure and stress of the busy schooling schedule led to severe health problems because of a stoke in 2017. After three days in a coma while on life support, three months in intensive care and most of that year in a Vancouver rehabilitation hospital, Olu regained the ability to walk and talk.
With so many ups and downs, she never lost the fighting spirit to create a better life in Canada.
After relocating back to Toronto, the former nurse noticed a poster for Pathway of Hope at The Salvation Army Toronto Harbour Light Ministries, her home for 24 months after stroke rehab in Vancouver. It was then Vivian Richard, Pathway of Hope caseworker, at The Salvation Army Downtown East Community Church entered her life.
“I’m filled with gratitude and joy for the journey I’ve undertaken through Pathway of Hope,” Olu says. “It’s not just about having someone by your side; it’s about having the desire to achieve your dreams.”
The identified goals to realize her aspirations were to find a place to live and secure stable employment, and Vivian Richard was there during the transformative process.
“Olu’s journey with us has been a beacon of hope and inspiration. From the moment we met, her heart was set on giving back to the community,” Richard says. “Her determination allowed us to assist every step of the way, finding not just a place to live and work, but a place to thrive. Witnessing her regain self-confidence and belief has been truly uplifting.”
Through innovative partnerships with community organizations such as Dixon Hall and March of Dimes Canada, Olu was able to receive employment support services, and successfully secure a job this summer.
“You need the determination, the zeal, and the passion to get something done. No one else can do it for you; you must take that step yourself,” said Olu. “I’m thankful for every challenge because they’ve all led me closer to realizing my dreams.”
Whenever there is hardship, we’ll be there to assist people like Olu. To support our life-changing programs and services across Ontario or in your community, please donate at www.salvationarmy.ca or call 1-800-SAL-ARMY.