I'm finally able to sit down and write this review, and I truly don't even know where to begin…read more
On Sunday the 27th, I walked in as a complete newbie. I was emotional, nervous, and had absolutely no idea what to expect. My mother in law, who visits me from Alaska and Florida, recommended this place to me. I originally needed to pick up a birthday gift, but I also had about a million questions for myself.
For someone who struggles with agoraphobia and severe panic attacks, walking into a completely unfamiliar place can feel HUGE. I was basically a shaking Chihuahua trying to act like a functioning adult.
But somehow, the kindness started before I even made it through the door.
The security officer outside greeted me with the biggest, most welcoming smile. Then the wonderful woman at the entrance welcomed me, asked for my ID, and immediately got hit with my nervous word vomit about how much anxiety I had. Instead of making me feel awkward, she calmed my nerves and told me she knew someone inside would help me and help calm my soul.
And she was right.
I walked in completely lost and, naturally, immediately started going the wrong way. Straight out of the gate. But then the sweetest angel came to my rescue. After all of this, I feel terrible that I'm second guessing her name, but I believe it was Andrea. I really hope I'm remembering correctly because she absolutely deserves the recognition.
She was a godsend.
She could see how nervous I was and how much anxiety I was carrying. Her soft voice, patience, kindness, tips, suggestions, and reassurance made such a difference. I had walked in ready to spend whatever amount of money I thought it would take just to feel some relief, but instead I felt like someone genuinely listened to me and wanted to help me find what was right for me.
I purposely waited before writing this review because I wanted time to actually experience everything and see how I felt afterward.
Well, I'm writing this from Florida.
After a long flight.
Flying has always been a huge fear of mine. Anxiety and the fear of panicking have had me in a chicken hold for years. Before this trip, I also attended a company event surrounded by around 800 people, another situation that normally would have sent my anxiety through the roof.
And I was able to experience it.
I was able to be present. I was able to enjoy myself. I was able to travel. I was able to sit on that plane and make it all the way to Florida to spend time with my mother in law.
During my visit, I kept asking, "Please tell me I'm not the only person who comes in here like this." She reassured me that I wasn't. She never made me feel embarrassed, dramatic, or strange. She simply made me feel human.
That mattered more than she probably realizes.
For the first time in a long time, I feel like I can breathe a little easier and experience normal human interaction without my anxiety controlling every second of it.
I am thankful beyond words for the patience, compassion, kindness, and guidance I received from the moment I arrived.
From the security officer outside, to the woman who welcomed me at the door, to Andrea, the absolute angel who helped me inside, thank you.
Truly, from the bottom of my very anxious little Chihuahua heart, thank you.
