Life After Tragedy With Blandina Vergara-Cruz

You Matter Nashville

In this episode of You Matter Nashville, Mindy and I had the privilege of interviewing our dear friend, Blandina, someone who has become like family to us through our shared experiences in music, theater, and community service. Blandina opened up about her incredible journey of giving back to the community and how her work has evolved over the years. She talked about her late son, Raymond, who battled cancer with such grace and left behind a powerful legacy through the Ray of Light Foundation, which provides support to families dealing with serious illnesses, particularly in the palliative care department at Vanderbilt.

Blandina also touched on her various businesses, including Dreams Do Come True Princess Parties, where little girls can experience magical moments with princesses, and The Franklin Playhouse, her newest venture that brings theater to families in Franklin. Through these projects, she continues to foster creativity and connection in the community. What stood out most in our conversation was her deep belief in the power of community and how important it is to not just live in a place, but to be an active part of making it better.

She shared how Raymond’s legacy continues to inspire her and others, and how her various initiatives are all tied to one simple mission: to spread light and make a positive impact. Blandina’s story is a beautiful reminder that when we serve others, we’re also enriching our own lives in ways we may never have expected.
Takeaways

• Being an active member of the community and making a difference is important.
• Supporting hospitals and initiatives like the Shine Your Light vocal competition can have a positive impact.
• Providing snacks and gifts to hospitals and senior citizens can bring joy and connection.
• Helping families with burial care is an important and often overlooked need.
• Collective impact is powerful, and even small contributions can make a difference.
• Giving back to the community brings personal joy and fulfillment. Community support is crucial in times of hardship and can make a significant difference in the lives of individuals and families.
• Initiatives like the Ray of Light Bereavement Program and the Franklin Playhouse provide valuable resources and support for those in need.
• Businesses like Dreams Do Come True Princess Parties offer unique and memorable experiences for children's parties.
• Being involved in the community and giving back can bring joy and fulfillment to individuals and create a positive impact.
• The power of friendship and support is evident in the strong bond between Jason, Mindy, Blandina, and their community.

Special Guest
Blandina Vergara-Cruz
Ray Of Light Foundation
https://www.rayoflighttn.com
Dreams Do Come True Princess Parties
https://www.dreamsdocometrueprincessparties.com
The Franklin Playhouse
https://www.thefranklinplayhouse.com
You Matter Nashville YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/@YouMatterNashville
The Hoover Team
https://www.thehooverteam.com/

Kapitel

1. Introduction and Background (00:00:00)

2. Being a Family in the Community (00:03:11)

3. Supporting Vanderbilt Children's Hospital (00:04:06)

4. The Shine Your Light Vocal Competition (00:10:08)

5. Bringing Joy to Hospitals and Senior Citizens (00:13:29)

6. Helping Families with Burial Care (00:15:50)

7. The Power of Collective Impact (00:18:12)

8. The Joy of Giving Back (00:22:27)

9. Community Initiatives and Nonprofits (00:27:12)

10. Dreams Do Come True Princess Parties (00:34:20)

11. The Franklin Playhouse (00:39:22)

12. The Power of Community and Friendship (00:41:43)