273: Plot Twist with Jessica Janzen
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273: Plot Twist with Jessica Janzen
Episode 273: Show Notes
In this moving Plot Twist episode of The Light Watkins Show, Light revisits the pivotal moment that forever changed Jessica Janzen's life. Jessica recounts how a reluctant volunteer experience at her church led her to care for two children with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA)—a rare genetic condition that limits physical abilities but not cognitive sharpness. What started as a Sunday morning act of service became a profound journey of love, gratitude, and transformation.
Years later, Jessica’s world was turned upside down when her second child, Lewiston, was diagnosed with the very condition she had grown to understand through Shawn and Shanea, the siblings she had once cared for. Jessica shares the raw emotions of navigating SMA, from daily caregiving challenges to the deep lessons it taught her about resilience, joy, and gratitude for life’s simplest blessings.
This conversation explores the power of following life’s nudges, the beauty of showing up for others, and how seemingly small actions can lead to profound impact. Jessica also opens up about her relationship with her husband, Ronnie—better known as “Hot Ronnie”—and how love and faith carried them through life’s greatest challenges.
Whether you’re navigating uncertainty, seeking inspiration to embrace gratitude, or looking to connect with your purpose, Jessica’s story will remind you of the power of leaning into discomfort, trusting your instincts, and finding joy in the unexpected.
Tune in for an episode filled with heartfelt lessons and unforgettable insights.
Key Points From This Episode:
From Reluctance to Service: Jessica shares how a Sunday school volunteer opportunity unexpectedly led her to care for two children with SMA, changing her perspective on life and service.
The Power of Nudges: Jessica discusses the "nudges" she felt to help Shawn and Shanea’s family and how following those instincts has profoundly shaped her journey.
What is Spinal Muscular Atrophy? Jessica explains SMA, a rare genetic condition that weakens muscles but leaves cognitive abilities intact.
Early Warning Signs: Jessica recounts how a chiropractor’s recommendation to seek emergency care saved her son Lewiston’s life.
Navigating a Life-Changing Diagnosis: Jessica reflects on the moment she learned her son had SMA and how it shifted her perspective on caregiving and gratitude.
Embracing the Caregiving Role: Jessica shares the daily realities of caring for children with SMA, from brushing their teeth to helping them eat, move, and live as independently as possible.
Lessons in Gratitude: Jessica explains how caring for Shawn and Shanea made her more aware of the small blessings we often take for granted.
Finding Joy in Challenges: From picking noses to playing pretend dentist, Jessica reveals how even small acts of caregiving brought joy to her life.
Redefining Success: Jessica discusses how her corporate role evolved into a mission to combine business success with community impact.
Love and Support: Jessica shares how her husband, “Hot Ronnie,” became an integral part of her caregiving journey, despite initial discomfort.
Family and Resilience: Jessica reflects on how her faith, marriage, and children helped her navigate the profound challenges of SMA.
Advocacy and Impact: Jessica highlights the importance of showing up for others, raising awareness for SMA, and inspiring people to find purpose in service.
Quotes:
"Life doesn’t ask if you’re ready for hard things; it just asks if you’ll show up." — Jessica Janzen
"Sometimes, the hardest things we endure become the greatest blessings we never expected." — Jessica Janzen
"Radical acceptance doesn’t erase the pain; it transforms how you live with it." — Jessica Janzen
"Comfort and growth rarely share the same space. Trust the nudge that stretches you." — Jessica Janzen
"Purpose isn’t found in perfection; it’s found in how you show up for others." — Jessica Janzen
"The best way to heal is to help someone else find their light in the darkness." — Jessica Janzen
Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:
Follow Jessica on social media: @theJessicaJanzen
Listen to Jessica’s full episode here: https://www.lightwatkins.com/show/jessica-janzen