Inspiring Conversations with Jessica Gardner of Essentially Blessed Jessica Education

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jessica Gardner.

Hi Jessica, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My journey began with significant challenges that shaped my resilience and determination. In 2nd grade, I was diagnosed with auditory processing disorder, which made traditional learning environments difficult. Recognizing this, my parents took me out of the Johnston County public school system to homeschool me, providing a more personalized and supportive educational setting.

In 6th grade, around ages 12-13, I faced a major health challenge when I was diagnosed with pectus excavatum, a chest deformity with a Haller index of 4.0. This required major surgery during the summer to correct the defect. The surgery was a pivotal moment in my life, marking a significant hurdle I had to overcome at a young age.

A few years later, I graduated from high school and embarked on a new educational journey at Johnston Community College (JCC), enrolling in the bioprocess technology program. I was the first and youngest high schooler in the Career and College Promise (CCP) program for bioprocess technology, working alongside adults to complete my degree. During my second year at JCC, I met my future husband, James Gardner. Our mutual support and dedication helped us both graduate with our associate degrees.

After graduation, I entered the workforce in my field of study but quickly realized that it wasn’t fulfilling. After about nine months, I transitioned to a part-time job at the local YMCA as a swim coach. This role allowed me to engage with my community and find joy in helping others. During this time, James and I got engaged and began planning our future together, culminating in our wedding on September 25, 2021.

Seeking new opportunities, we decided to invest in an Amazon business. Despite our best efforts, the venture faced numerous challenges and we decided to close it after a year. Throughout this period, I continued to explore my entrepreneurial interests by selling resin crafts and essential oils, which provided additional income and creative fulfillment.

Two years ago, I encountered another significant health setback when I required a second surgery for pectus excavatum as an adult. This surgery was complicated and nearly cost me my life. Overcoming this ordeal was a testament to my resilience and determination to return to a healthy state.

Motivated by my experiences and a renewed passion for education, I enrolled at Western Governors University to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and Special Education. As an instructional assistant, I found immense joy in working with students with disabilities. Helping them grasp new concepts and supporting their daily needs was incredibly rewarding. Despite leaving the school due to unresolved issues, I received positive feedback about the educational resources I had created, which inspired me to establish Essentially Blessed Jessica Education.

Initially, I started a Teachers Pay Teachers store to share my resources, but it was unfortunately closed for unexplained reasons. This setback did not deter me; instead, it motivated me to self-publish children’s books. I authored and illustrated “Learning How to Control My Emotions” and “The Alphabet Book,” which were designed to support both students and teachers. Through this process, I discovered a deep passion for writing and creating educational content.

Currently, I am working on my third book, “Breaking Through the Bars,” which is in the rough draft stage. Essentially Blessed Jessica Education aims to provide educational resources for children and young teens, especially those with disabilities, who may not receive adequate support in traditional school settings. Additionally, I aim to share the gospel and incorporate faith-based elements into my work.

My journey has taught me the importance of resilience, determination, and faith. By creating and sharing educational resources, I hope to empower students, particularly those with disabilities, and provide them with the tools and support they need to succeed. Follow Essentially Blessed Jessica Education on Facebook and Instagram for updates on my books and educational resources. My mission is to make a meaningful impact on children’s educational journeys, helping them overcome challenges and achieve their full potential.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It has certainly not been a smooth road for me, Jessica Gardner. I faced numerous challenges, including living with disabilities, undergoing multiple surgeries, dealing with family dynamics, and enduring doubt and judgment from others. Despite these obstacles, I remained determined to pursue my dreams. My journey through these struggles has led me to discover a passion for writing, allowing me to share my experiences and let others know they are not alone. Through Essentially Blessed Jessica Education, I am confident that I will continue to help others in many ways. School and life can be difficult, but I encourage everyone to keep pushing forward, no matter what comes their way.

Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Essentially Blessed Jessica Education ?
Essentially Blessed Jessica Education is a passion-driven venture founded by me, Jessica Gardner, an educator, creator, and author dedicated to inclusive education. Our mission is to provide children and young teens, particularly those with disabilities, with the educational resources they may not receive in traditional school settings. We cater to both general and special education students, ensuring that every child has access to the tools and support they need to succeed.

What sets Essentially Blessed Jessica Education apart is our commitment to incorporating faith-based elements into our educational resources, sharing the gospel alongside academic content. We believe that education and faith can work hand in hand to empower students and help them overcome challenges.

Currently, I am working on building a website to expand our offerings and make our resources more accessible. We have already published two children’s books, “Learning How to Control My Emotions” and “The Alphabet Book,” with a third book, “Breaking Through the Bars,” in progress. These books are designed to help students grasp important concepts in a supportive and engaging manner.

I am most proud of the positive impact our resources have had on students, especially those with disabilities. The feedback from educators and parents has been incredibly encouraging, affirming that our efforts are making a difference.

I invite you to follow Essentially Blessed Jessica Education on Facebook and Instagram for updates on our books and educational resources. Our ultimate goal is to empower students by providing them with the necessary tools and support to thrive in their educational journeys. Through determination and faith, I have learned that we can overcome any challenge and make a meaningful impact on the lives of others.

Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
I see myself as a risk-taker, embracing opportunities that push me out of my comfort zone and drive me toward growth. One significant risk I’ve taken involved undergoing multiple major surgeries for pectus excavatum. These surgeries were essential to alleviate pain and improve my quality of life, but they also came with considerable risks, including the potential for serious complications. Facing these challenges head-on demonstrated my willingness to take necessary risks for long-term well-being.

Another major risk was starting an Amazon business with my husband. Although it ultimately wasn’t the right fit for us and we decided to close it after a year, the experience taught me valuable lessons about entrepreneurship, resilience, and adaptability. This venture required a significant investment of time and resources, and navigating the uncertainties of the business world was a bold move that broadened my understanding of risk and reward.

Additionally, I took a substantial risk when I decided to quit my job as an instructional assistant. I left because I was advocating for my students and fighting for the necessary actions that were not being taken at the time. Standing up for what I believed in, even at the cost of my job, underscored my commitment to making a positive impact on students’ lives, regardless of the personal and professional risks involved.

To me, risk-taking is about making informed decisions that align with my values and goals, even when the outcomes are uncertain. Each risk I’ve taken has shaped my journey, teaching me resilience and reinforcing my belief that with determination and faith, I can overcome any challenge.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/essentiallyblessedjessicaedu/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Essentiallyblessedjessicaeducation
• Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/jessicathomas1635
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6XZypzB-bTEC_UbnYTDU-Q