As I walked into the Hospitality Room at The Flying Star where I was to teach, I was met with a room full of open, friendly faces. I had been invited to teach mindfulness and meditation to people who who are living with Progressive Supranuclear Palsy or Corticobasal Degeneration and their caretakers and loved ones. PSP and CBD are neurodegenerative brain diseases causing a myriad of physical challenges for those who have the disease and emotional challenges for all involved.

It was an honor to work with this group. The room was full of love, wakefulness and wisdom. People spoke openly of their pains, struggles and fears while they held firmly to the supportive energy that this support group has created for them. I was struck by the level of authenticity, courage and humor. The teaching, discussion and connection were a delight. A big thank you to all who were present and to the founder of the group, Roxi Padrid. When we come together, we find breath.

“Devon Finnegan is an inspirational person and teacher.  I am a support group facilitator in the Albuquerque area for patients and loved ones living with neurodegenerative diseases. We were lucky enough to have Devon present to our group and guide us through some mindfulness exercises. Her soothing and serene manner created a safe environment in which we could express our fears and discuss our struggles. We are traveling a difficult road and Devon helped us focus on our awareness and what we have today, rather than dwell on what may happen in the future.  She is truly a gifted teacher and we were all very grateful for the time we spent with her.”   -Roxi Padrid-