Today I lost my childhood friend. I knew this was coming for a few weeks and I had all these nice words prepared, but right now, I’m shooting from the hip.
One of my first core memories is me riding big wheels and fishing with Chas, my sister Syreeta, her brother Mike and her sister Tiffany (RIP Tiff) at the age of 4 and 5.
I can’t believe it’s been 40 years being family and friends. 40 years of being Chas and Tice.
Waiting to Exhale was one of her favorite albums and Whitney Houston was her favorite singer. We used to drive around as teens blasting “How will I know” through the radio.
Chas inspired me in so many ways as young girls. She was beautiful, brave, and knew what she wanted. I still can’t believe she ran for and won Dogwood Queen in 11th grade. She didn’t tell anyone what she was doing and I was amazed at her courage. She also won Miss Congeniality at the pageant. I was so proud!
Chas always dressed so professional and grown-up she was sort of like a big sister to me even though we were in the same grade. She matured before me in many ways and I wanted to be like her - a working woman with a car, a phone, nice clothes, and a cute man!
Not many knew that we were fighting Chas’ illness for 4+ years. Chas is very private and didn’t want people to see her in any other light than Chasity Marie Gary, P-ville’s own Dogwood Queen, thee funnest friend, caring social worker, and her greatest work - a dedicated mother. I will always see her this way.
This is the saddest I’ve ever been. I’m not just mourning a friend and a sister, I’m mourning a childhood.
Her legacy lives in her two beautiful young daughters, and I promised her I would protect and watch over them.
I love you Chasity Marie. I’m will miss you. See you in the next lifetime!
A woman named Pamela Brown-Matthis told me I needed a sizzle reel. I have never thought to create one because I don’t see myself as a prolific speaker. I find it cringe to listen to myself speak and, with few exceptions, I don’t watch my press videos. I also don’t actively seek out public speaking, events, or media.
Most things I do unrelated to my CEO and founder duties are whims I say yes to because I find it interesting, or it pays well, or I think it could be good for my brand.
I’m leveling up my business and myself this year which means more opportunities to share my story and connect with people, so I told Pam, yes, I’ll create my sizzle reel.
I worked countless hours on this video and while watching the final version, I’m amazed by everything I accomplished with @girlsautoclinic and my Shecanic brand since I quit my job at DuPont and decided to bet on myself and my crazy idea to solve women’s automotive problems and enhance their experiences.
I don’t view myself as successful because my personal goals for GAC have not been reached but I’m really proud of myself and the woman I’m becoming.
This video makes me happy. It also makes me want to take the day off! 😊 #shecanic #girlsautoclinic #imthatgirl
