Shara Ruffin’s Post

Grateful for the Support: Update on My Stepdad’s Battle with Cancer Feeling incredibly grateful for the amazing support from my LinkedIn family and the incredible social workers who have helped us through my stepdad’s battle with cancer. He’s currently stable and undergoing chemo, with gamma knife surgery scheduled tomorrow for the lesions in his head due to advanced stage four lung cancer with brain metastasis. We are deeply thankful for all the support. I’ve paused my TikTok live study sessions until this coming Monday to focus on self-care and managing other tasks. I will be back to my regular postings on Monday. Thank you all so much for your continued support. #socialworkers #gratitude #familysupport

This is what it’s all about: making memories with your loved ones. I spent a few precious hours with my stepdad, who is courageously battling stage 4 advanced lung cancer with brain metastasis. After taking some time to rest, I ran to the store to get his snacks, and all he asked for was a cheesesteak. At this point, whatever he wants, I make sure he gets it. He is in the last stages of his cancer journey, with a crucial surgery scheduled for Friday to treat the lesions on his head. Following the surgery, he will go straight to physical rehab before coming home. Cherish every moment, big or small. These are the memories that matter most. #socialworkers #cancerjourney #familyfirst

Follow Nicole’s inspiring journey to obtain her LCSW! Despite all the roadblocks and discouragement, she persevered and eventually triumphed. Nicole’s story is a powerful reminder that determination and resilience can overcome any obstacle. Her unwavering commitment to her goals, even in the face of adversity, is truly motivating. Let Nicole’s journey inspire you to strive and succeed in your own path. If she can do it, so can you! 🎧Listen To Journey To Licensure Podcast to hear Nicole’s story, link in the comments. Need support with your journey ? Reach out for support, link in the comments . #shararuffin #journeytolicensure #socialworkers

“Be like water.” This profound philosophy teaches us the power of adaptability, strength, and resilience. Water can take any shape, move around obstacles, and persistently carve its path. In the past few days, I’ve embraced this mindset, especially after sitting with my step dad who has terminal cancer, while juggling my other responsibilities. Life’s challenges have been numerous, but like water, I’ve adapted, remained resilient, and persisted through each obstacle. Embrace the flow and keep moving .. because life will. #Mindset #Resilience #PersonalGrowth #socialworkers #shararuffin 🎥: gigantesdenaz

I’ve been quiet on LinkedIn to focus on my family. This week has been tough as my stepdad had a severe seizure on Tuesday. My stepdad is battling advanced lung cancer with brain metastasis, a journey that began two years ago, just six months after my 18-year-old brother was killed. In Spring 2022, a routine scan after his lung collapsed revealed two cancers. If not detected, he would have had only six months to live. On Christmas Eve 2022, a seizure led to the discovery of four brain tumors. He’s had two surgeries to remove three of them. Two months ago, another tumor was removed. Now, he has three new lesions to be treated with a gamma knife. It’s been a whirlwind. This weekend, I’m visiting him to bring some homemade food and cheer him up. One life lesson: cherish every moment with your loved ones. Life is unpredictable, but love and support make all the difference. Thank you for your understanding and support. #FamilyFirst #CancerJourney #LifeLessons #socialworkers

Mentorship and professional development are at the heart of what I do, beyond just the licensing process. I often talk with my social work clients about the importance of building their professional presence and enhancing their professional journey. Nothing brings me more joy than seeing my former clients win. Today, I want to celebrate Pametria Brown, LCSW . Since joining our social work community in 2021, Pametria has grown tremendously. On April 19th, she passed her clinical exam with flying colors—18 points above the passing score—after participating in our group coaching program. Now, she has launched BlackTherapistMatter.org, an online database of mental health and wellness professionals, serving as a one-stop shop for people in Memphis, Tennessee. Pametria's journey is a testament to a powerful life lesson: 🌿The seed that is planted is not forged today, but tomorrow. Every step in our professional development is a seed we plant for our future selves. With patience, focus, and dedication, these seeds will grow into something incredible. Pametria was featured in ActionNews5!!! See the link to her article in the comments section! Congratulations, Pametria! Your hard work and perseverance are an inspiration to us all.  #journeytolicensure #shararuffin #Mentorship #ProfessionalDevelopment #socialworkers

Germaine had a dream to obtain his social work license, but life got in the way. As a father of six, balancing family responsibilities and pursuing his career seemed daunting. However, with our one-to-one program, he was able to navigate through unique challenges and finally realize his dream. Germaine’s journey proves that anything is possible with dedication and hard work. His story is an inspiration to all who face obstacles in their professional pursuits. If you want to hear Germaine’s story, feel free to take a listen. If you need support with your licensing journey, click the link in the comments for a free consultation. Together, we can achieve your goals. #socialworkers #journeytolicensure #shararuffin

💬 Being Vulnerable About My Health Journey For over two years, I’ve been grappling with high blood pressure and migraines. These health issues run deep in my family, with my grandparents and parents both dealing with them, along with a history of cancer and heart problems. At 38 years old, I realize how crucial it is to take care of myself, not just for my sake but for those I aim to help. Today, I’m being vulnerable with you all. I fell off the exercise wagon for a while, which only made these challenges harder to manage. But I know I can’t pour from an empty cup. To effectively support others, I must first nurture my own well-being. So today marked my first day back on the elliptical. It wasn’t easy, but I did it. I made it. And that’s a start. Here’s a life lesson I’ve learned through this journey: Resilience is built one step at a time. No matter how far you’ve strayed from your goals, it’s never too late to begin again. Each step forward, no matter how small, is progress. To all my fellow warriors out there, remember that taking care of yourself is not a luxury—it’s a necessity. Let’s keep moving forward, one step at a time. #socialResilience #SelfCare #socialworkers #NeverGiveUp

I'm thrilled to share a glowing review from Naomi, who passed her exam on her 8th try with personalized one-to-one coaching! Here's what she had to say: "Shara's guidance was a game-changer, teaching me effective study strategies. Listening to her YouTube clips was also very helpful. Her assistance is highly effective for obtaining your licensure - an investment you won't regret if you're pursuing your license." One important lesson I've learned in my journey as a social worker is the importance of investing in yourself. Your growth and success are worth every effort. Don't hesitate to seek support and resources that can help you achieve your goals. Ready to take the next step? Reach out for support and book your consultation! The link is in the comment section. Check out Naomi's podcast testimony in the comments as well! #socialworkers #JourneyToLicensure #shararuffin

Amelia wasn’t sure about investing in one-on-one coaching—until she saw the amazing results! Through personalized accountability and structure, she was able to successfully get her license. Hear Amelia’s inspiring story by clicking the link below. Her journey shows the power of dedicated support and perseverance. If you need support with your licensing journey, click the link in the comments for a free consultation. You don’t have to do it alone ! Here Amelia’s inspiring story link in the comments. #shararuffin #journeytolicensure #socialworkers