Stella Reddy's Story of Hope

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COVID-19 & Flu Shots: A Little Act of Self-Care

Yesterday, I did something small but meaningful for my health—I went out and got my annual COVID-19 and Flu vaccines. Here in Newfoundland & Labrador, the rollout began on October 20, 2025, and I’m grateful these protections are available and free for everyone over six months old. It’s one of those quiet acts of self-care that reminds me I’m still showing up for myself. I am a bit sore this morning, but it was expected.

I’ve had a rough time with the flu in the past, and while I haven’t had COVID-19, I don’t take that for granted. In the early days of the pandemic, I was getting vaccinated every six months. This year, I decided to simplify and get both shots together. I was told once a year is enough now, so I’ll stick with that rhythm moving forward. It feels good to have that done.

There’s something new this year, too—Shingrix, the shingles vaccine, is now available for free to anyone over 50 with immune challenges here in NL. I’ll be heading back in two weeks for that one. They advised spacing it out from the others, and I’m happy to follow that guidance.

Shingles is something I’ve experienced before, back when I was 18 and had just moved from the West Coast to St. John’s. I don’t remember all the details, but I do remember the burning pain. A red, scaly rash on my upper back made sleep nearly impossible. Sitting up was hard, lying down even worse. Calamine Lotion was the only relief I found. It’s not something I want to go through again.

These vaccines aren’t just about prevention—they’re part of a larger journey of resilience, of choosing to protect my body and honour my well-being.

NL Weather: A Shift in Season and Self-Awareness

The chill in the air yesterday was unmistakable: autumn has fully settled into Newfoundland & Labrador, and with it comes the quiet rhythm of colder days. The crisp breeze, the golden light, and the scent of change in the air always stir something in me. I love this weather—the way it wraps the world in stillness and reflection—but my body doesn’t always agree.

As someone navigating the ups and downs of chronic health challenges, seasonal shifts like this are more than just a temperature change. They’re a reminder of how deeply connected we are to our environment. The cold settles into my joints, slows my steps, and nudges me to listen more closely to what my body needs. It’s a strange kind of push-pull: emotionally, I feel invigorated by the beauty of fall, but physically, I’m reminded to slow down and take extra care. I don’t want another fall where I fracture something again!

This time of year always brings a mix of nostalgia and resilience. I find myself layering up not just in sweaters and scarves, but in self-compassion. I’ve learned to honour the discomfort without letting it define me. A warm cup of coffee, a cozy blanket, and a quiet afternoon indoors can be just as healing as any medication. These small comforts become rituals—acts of kindness toward myself. Why not? I am retired!

Living in NL means embracing the extremes: the biting wind off the Atlantic, the damp chill that clings to your skin, and the breathtaking sunsets that make it all worthwhile. There’s a kind of emotional clarity that comes with colder weather. It strips away the noise and invites introspection. I find myself journaling more, reflecting on the year behind me, and preparing—mentally and physically—for the long winter ahead. I am looking forward to Christmas!

So yes, the colder weather is here to stay. And while my body may protest, my spirit leans into the season with gratitude. It’s another chapter in this ongoing journey of growth, resilience, and learning to live gently with myself.

Embracing the Quiet: A Cozy Week Ahead in NL

As the colder weather settles into Newfoundland & Labrador, I find myself leaning into the quiet comfort of staying home. The wind has a sharper edge now, and the skies seem to whisper that it’s time to slow down. I’m listening.

This week looks like it’ll be a gentle one—no big plans, no rushing around. Just me, my cozy space, and the little rituals that bring warmth to chilly days. There’s something deeply soothing about letting go of the need to be busy and instead embracing the stillness. The hum of YouTube videos, or a favourite playlist in the background—it’s enough.

I started colouring again! I took out my colouring books and leads and dusted them off while cleaning my office. Such a small thing, but it brings a big impact. There is something about seeing a picture come to life in colour that brings me contentment. I find it very relaxing!

I’ve come to appreciate these slower moments more and more. They give me space to reflect, to breathe, and to reconnect with myself. After everything I’ve been through, I’ve learned that peace isn’t found in the noise—it’s in the quiet corners of everyday life. Staying home isn’t just about shelter from the cold; it’s about choosing comfort, choosing care, and choosing me.

Personal Reflections: Calling Out Aggressive Behaviour

On October 6, 2025, I found myself stepping into a moment I never expected: I joined a public Zoom tribunal hearing involving an individual who had bullied me in the past. I didn’t speak, other than to tell them why I wanted to attend when I was asked. I was just there to observe. But even my silent presence was enough to provoke a reaction. He lashed out, and I was removed from the session. It was jarring, but also strangely validating.

The release of the Decision on October 7, 2025, link shared below, showed me that there was no circumstance where this person could respectfully act as an Adult. I find it very sad that a grown man has to place blame on other people for his personal shortcomings. Will another website show up to disparage these people now? It wouldn’t surprise me; it is what he does.

Canlii.org has shown me the results of that Hearing that was released on October 7, 2025: https://canlii.ca/t/kg306

The Oct. 6 Hearing started as scheduled at 9:30 a.m. with all of the parties in attendance. However, the Board ended the Oct. 6 Hearing only 40 minutes later due to the applicant’s behaviour. The applicant was disrespectful and disruptive throughout the hearing and abusive towards this panel of the Board.

I’ve been using exposure therapy to help me face the anxiety and trauma left behind by the years of this person’s narcissistic abuse towards me, which started in the workplace in 2016, and later went online through websites they created. Attending that hearing was another step in that journey.

It reminded me how far I’ve come. I used to be terrified of these people and the venom they could unleash verbally. Now, I can sit in the same virtual room and hold my ground—even if only for a moment before being asked to leave.

His behaviour during the hearing only confirmed what I already knew: his toxicity runs deep. I’ve spent years documenting the harassment I endured, and moments like this reinforce why I continue to speak out.

I also reflected recently on how much energy I’ve had to spend protecting myself—watching for signs of online attacks, searching for instances of my identity put online by them, and staying alert. It’s exhausting, but necessary. Still, I refuse to let fear dictate my life. I’ve learned to stay calm, stay curious, and keep moving forward.

This post was a reminder to myself: I am not who I was when this all began. I’m stronger now. I’m healing. And I’m not afraid to be seen.

So here’s to a quiet week ahead. To warm socks, soft light, and the simple joy of being present. I’m not hiding from the world—I’m just giving myself the grace to rest in it.