Another Wonderful REBOOT Graduation, Spring 2025

And the scene was set for success.

As the graduates slowly arrived, they each had a glow to their faces. They knew their 12 weeks of hard work and determination had paid off. They were ready to begin their new lives with the tools to face and conquer old traumas that might resurface and the new ones that life may bring. It was the start of a successful evening.

The guests arrived shortly thereafter, with spirits that electrified the room. As they surveyed the surroundings, the tacit nods of approval showed us that our digs were suitable. You could tell immediately that the guests were so proud of their graduates that they were giddy with anticipation for the ceremony to begin.

Small talk occurred around the room, with questions about trauma healing, the various programs, the setup, and the after-ceremony refreshments. As the Quad Cities Outreach Center tours came by, facilitator Maria Berdecia showed them our room, fielded questions, and provided information about our upcoming summer course. 

Then, the guest speaker’s arrival marked the start time, and the ceremony began. The program standards include welcome, introduction, scripture readings, and prayers. The guest speaker adds an air of distinction to the occasion. Lola Van DeWalle, Founder and Executive Director of the Quad Cities Outreach Center, began by thanking the REBOOT Recovery facilitators for their work. She remarked that she wished a program like this had always been available.

Trauma has no boundaries and impacts everyone, and Lola shared her heartwrenching story of triumph over trauma, inspiring us all. She exemplified what the participants were told in every class: “Trauma is not a lifetime sentence.” Then, it was time to recognize the graduates. As each one was presented with their Certificate of Completion, they shared their stories of triumph over trauma with the help of the Trauma REBOOT Course. One of our resident chefs, Kelly Miller, stood ready for the hungry graduates and guests to sample the culinary delights.  

It was another successful Trauma REBOOT graduation.

If you or anyone you know would benefit from trauma healing, click the link above for information on our Summer Trauma Course.

If you feel compelled to support trauma healing, click the donate button, which will take you to a webpage with a list of choices.

Are you ready for trauma healing? #traumahealing #trauma #rebootrecovery

Dr. Burl Randolph, Jr., DM, is a REBOOT Combat Recovery Course graduate and the REBOOT Combat and Trauma Recovery Leader Courses. He is also a co-founder and facilitator of REBOOT Recovery of the Quad Cities.