Near-Death experience results in a miracle of hope for Brantford woman
Author, Karen Chandler
Heather Gormley overdosed. SHE FLAT-LINED.
She died. SHE WAS RESUSCITATED.
It changed her existence. She has committed to life-long positivity and success for others and herself
MIRACLES DO HAPPEN IN BRANTFORD!
Heather Gormley, a Brantford entrepreneur and owner of the flourishing Brazilian Princess studio, is redefining what it means to thrive with ADHD and contribute to society like she never anticipated!
Diagnosed with the disorder in sixth grade, Gormley has turned what many see as a challenge into a powerful asset, proving that with the right mindset and strategies, personal obstacles can be transformed into remarkable achievements. Growing up, Gormley worked hard to accommodate her symptoms in school. Her ADHD made it difficult to learn in traditional ways, but she was popular with her friends around her and her peers helped her. Finishing high school, she became a young mother, and went on to start training as an Advanced Medical Aesthetician. At age 18, a life-altering drug overdose led to a life-changing recovery.
(Heather, as a teenager with her son on her left knee)
Gormley pursued training as an Advanced Medical-Certified Aesthetician, when she overdosed. Eventually, after her treatments, she completed the certification and worked in local salons before launching her own studio in 2020.
“Instead of seeing ADHD as a barrier, I started viewing it as a tool,” says Gormley. “It’s not just about overcoming it; it’s about using it to my advantage. Shifting my perspective has made all the difference in my life and business.”
While ADHD is often associated with difficulties such as focus issues and disorganization, Gormley emphasizes that there are many positive traits linked to the condition. Increased creativity, high energy, and an ability to think outside the box are just a few of the strengths that come with ADHD. Gormley herself embraces these characteristics, which help her innovate and solve problems in unique ways.
“There are so many amazing positives to having ADHD,” she adds.“People with ADHD are great at connecting ideas that others might miss, which leads to creative and innovative solutions.”
In her own life, Gormley has developed a range of strategies to help manage her symptoms while running a successful business. Digital tools for organization, clear routines, and a strong support team are central to her productivity. One technique she swears by is guided meditation, which she practices using the Calm app to help her stay focused and grounded.
“I rely on meditation to quiet my mind and stay present,” she shares. “It’s been a game-changer for me, especially when I feel overwhelmed.”
Beyond her business success, Gormley is deeply committed to giving back to her community. She regularly supports local causes like Nova Vita, the Brantford SPCA, and B.L.’s Little Free Pantries. Her involvement in Brantford’s Annual UnBirthday event, which serves people who may feel excluded from traditional social gatherings, is just one example of her dedication to making a positive impact.
“I want people to know that no matter what challenges you face, there’s always a way forward,” Gormley says. “There’s support available, and you can make a positive change in your life. I encourage everyone to make good choices.”
In 2021, Gormley took a major step in growing her business by applying for small business grants through the Brantford Resource Center. The process included attending classes on entrepreneurship and refining her business plan. Her hard work paid off with a $5,000 grant, which helped fund key initiatives like enhancing her website and producing professional photography and video content.
“I decided to use part of the grant to launch my TV show, BZ TV,” Gormley explains. “It wasn’t just about promoting my studio—it was also a platform to showcase other women in business. The show allowed me to connect with fellow entrepreneurs and share their stories.”
Through BZ TV, Gormley created a space to celebrate and empower other women, giving them a platform to highlight their journeys. For Gormley, the show is not just about business—it’s about lifting others up and fostering a sense of community.
Her openness about ADHD has inspired many, especially those who face similar challenges. By sharing her story, Gormley hopes to help destigmatize the condition and encourage others to embrace their unique strengths.
According to the Centre for ADHD Awareness Canada (CADDAC), ADHD is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders in Canada, affecting approximately 1.8 million people. Those with ADHD often struggle with focus, organization, and emotional regulation, but as Gormley’s story demonstrates, these challenges can be managed—and even turned into advantages.
In honor of ADHD Awareness Month, Gormley’s journey is a powerful reminder that with resilience, creativity, and the right tools, personal challenges can be transformed into pathways to success.
(Publisher’s Note: The author of this piece about Heather is Karen Chandler. Karen, also having overcome ADHD is a model for inspiration herself. As a College student she was the subject of a front page story in the Hamilton Spectator. The image was of a tractor trailer lying on a car it had crushed. Inside the car where the roof had been, there were a pair of frantic eyes screaming out in terror, voiceless but clearly traumatized. That person was her. Despite a year of surgeries and therapy, Karen returned to her 3-year Broadcasting Program, and completed it with a flair she had developed.)
Karen Chandler is an experienced public relations and communications professional with over 15 years in the field. She studied Television Broadcasting and Communications at Mohawk College, where she cultivated a strong foundation in storytelling and further enhanced her skills with a focus on Public Relations. Currently serving as the Communications Coordinator for a local not-for-profit, Kids Can Fly, Karen is dedicated to promoting the organization’s mission and enhancing its visibility within the community. Her expertise includes creating engaging content that resonates with diverse audiences. Karen has a proven track record of building strong brand narratives and fostering meaningful connections. Outside of her professional communication pursuits, she enjoys working as an entrepreneur and painter after starting Penny Lane Paint and Repair. She also enjoys spending time with her family.
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