Tracing Roots: Sharley’s Journey of Lost Connections + Broken Bridges

In this episode Sharley shares her multifaceted life story, starting with her career as a cleaner and organizer, which she began as a means of survival after her marriage ended. She discusses her love for organizing and how it has been a gratifying profession for nearly 15 years.

The conversation then shifts to Sharley's experiences as a writer. She recounts how she began her writing journey through blogging, which led her to co-author two published pieces before embarking on her current project: a memoir. This memoir, which she started in her early thirties, aims to capture her life experiences, particularly her adoption story and her complex journey as a mother.

Sharley provides a deeply personal account of her biological family's history, including her quest to uncover her roots. This research revealed challenging truths about her biological mother, who struggled with schizophrenia and substance abuse, and her biological grandfather's tragic car accident that took her grandmother's life.

A significant portion of the podcast is dedicated to discussing Sharley's estranged relationship with her daughter and how this estrangement has impacted her mental health and well-being. She reflects on the difficulties of reconciling with adult children and the pain of missed time, especially with her grandson.

Sharley also touches upon the challenges and emotional complexities of the adoption of her twins, who were raised by their father. She describes the eventual reconnection with her children through social media when they turned 18 and the bittersweet nature of these reunions.

The episode concludes with Sharley discussing her current projects and ambitions, including finishing her memoir, which she tentatively titles "Monster in the Mirror." She shares the poignant symbolism behind this title and her hopes for a better relationship with her children in the future.

To follow Sharley’s journey find her:

www. westendrenegade.com

Facebook: @west end renegade - Cleaning & Organizing 

www.instagram.com/west_end_renegade

Email: Sharley@ westendrenegade.com

Co - authored books:

Pursuit 365: black cover & pursuit 365:red cover business edition both found on amazon

Faces - book launch Mar 2. It will be available on Amazon as well as gklcreative.ca/faces 

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604-537-7706 OR ariane@capturephotography.studio