Breaking the Cycle, Not the Spirit: Jenny’s Journey from Silence to Advocacy
Posted by katie.weibel
In recognition of Disability Pride Month – from the PCC Career Pathways & STEP Program
“Mostly, I want others who face mental health struggles (as I do) to know that they don’t have to struggle alone. Ever since starting at PCC, I have taken EVERY chance to advocate for mental health awareness, and I think this is a great way to continue to do that.”
—Jenny, PCC Family and Human Services student
Jenny’s journey to Portland Community College is a powerful example of resilience, transformation and advocacy. A mother, five years clean and sober, and a full-time student, she’s navigating life with an invisible disability—ongoing mental health challenges including anxiety, depression, and PTSD— and she continues to defy the odds. She’s not just managing— she’s speaking out, showing up and building a future that’s rooted in purpose, paving the way for others.
Mental health is a disability that often goes unseen but is deeply felt. “When you combine it with parenting, trauma, and addiction recovery, it can feel overwhelming,” Jenny shares. “Just one of those things is hard. Put them all together, and it can feel impossible. That’s why I’m so open about my story. If more people remembered that you never really know what someone else is going through, and chose kindness, the world would be a better place.”
Jenny’s strength comes from her own relentless determination—and from the unwavering support of the people who walk beside her. Her ICAP & STEP coach, Katie Potts, has been one of those pillars. “Katie has been with me every step of the way. She reminds me of my strength when I forget it, and always makes me feel seen. I look forward to our meetings because I can get everything out. Even when I’m overwhelmed, she tells me I’m a rockstar—and that keeps me going.” She admits that the consistent support from Katie Potts, knowing she can count on her, helps her through the times where she doesn’t think she can push through.
Jenny also draws immense support from her partner, Justin Dowell, who stands by her through it all. “I truly couldn’t do this without Justin,” she says. “He’s my calm in the storm, my biggest encouragement, and is always there when I need him.”
Her drive is also rooted in early inspiration: foster parents, Eric and Jennifer Kristich, who once welcomed three siblings they didn’t know, to keep them together. Jenny carries their example with her, modeling that same compassion and advocacy for her own family.
All of this—her hard work, her commitment, and the strong community behind her—has helped Jenny thrive at PCC. She’s earned a spot on the President’s List every term so far, a testament to her focus, resilience, and determination to succeed.
This fall, Jenny will begin a field placement at the PCC Women’s Resource Center, an opportunity that grew from a class project and is now a stepping stone toward her future. She’s passionate about continuing to advocate for others navigating mental health, trauma, and/or addiction—just as she’s done for herself.
Jenny’s long-term career goals were shaped by negative experiences with DHS and the desire to create change, drawing inspiration from her foster parents’ instantaneous and unconditional love and support. “I don’t know exactly where I want to be yet,” she shares, “but I know I want to be in that space—to make it better for someone else.”
As we celebrate Disability Pride Month, Jenny’s story is a powerful reminder of the strength found in vulnerability, the importance of community, and the impact of being seen and heard.
Her message is simple, honest, and the heart of disability pride month:
“You don’t have to do it alone”.
