On IC Insights every week we feature an exceptional and inspiring person and ask them what made them choose to do what they do now as well as their views on success and fulfillment.
We skipped last week due to our trip to London, but we're sure that you'll find our guest this week has been worth waiting for! Sheila Marie Duncan, co-creator of "Trouble" has told us her amazing story...
Sheila with an armful of "Trouble"!
IC: Sheila, we’d love to know what you’re doing right now – can you describe your work a little?
Sheila: I am the co-creator of a little character named "Trouble" the dog. He teaches children all about life... hope... and resilience... gently with humor. Right now I've got a professional "pitch". I've had the collaborative efforts of a local animation company as well as a comedy writer and I'm going to be calling on children TV networks to turn "Trouble" into a television series for kids.
IC:
It sounds fun... and worthwhile at the same time! So, is this something that you
love to do and want to continue doing?
Sheila: Yes, "Trouble" has become my mission in life. He is very spiritually orchestrated and every time I hit a wall with this journey, someone comes forward to help me to the next level. Which now is the television series. I feel that this series is so needed in today's world. Children are definitely tuned in to all the stress that is evident due to the economy, catastrophes of nature, divorce, illness, you name it... and this series will open the door for parents to allow their children to talk... but at the same time... entertain them and make them laugh.
"Trouble" teaches children all about hope and resilience... with humor
IC: Sheila, do you have any plans to fulfill your dream?
Sheila: I'm already about to live my dream! Other than that, my ultimate goal with "Trouble" is to take his success and build a much needed childrens' hospice here in New England as well as a dog sanctuary in Tennessee. On a global level, my goal is to help children through the difficulties of life.
IC: What is the one thing you would tell anyone who is looking for a way to start doing what he/she loves?
Sheila: I would definitely say that you have to first think about what is your passion; and listen to that little internal 'voice' which will guide you in this direction. Once this happens, you've got to believe that it is possible and also be very, very persistent. It's not easy but if it truly is your passion, you'll know it in your heart.
IC: So, Sheila, what is the fascinating story behind your passion?
Sheila: When my niece, Kendra, was 12 years old she had lost her dad, my mother - who was her "Nonnie" - and her very best friend, my Golden Retriever named Irish, to cancer within a relatively short time. One evening during the winter of 2006 I had the St Jude Telethon on TV by mistake - there had been enough cancer in our lives - however, because she was so tuned into the disease, she looked at the children who were touched by the disease and said, "I've got to help these kids." She then sat down and drew "Trouble" the dog. We then started to come up with slogans for him such as "Where There's Trouble... There's Hope"... "Trouble Says... Be Tough" and "When Trouble Comes... You're Never Alone". She then wrote a little comic strip which I turned into a children's book.. and I've since seen the magic of "Trouble" with children (and adults) and have picked up the torch. It has become my absolute mission. We are presently working on a research survey which strongly suggests that "Trouble" literally elicits coping skills, hope, trust and joy in children (and grown ups).
"Trouble" - bringing hope and joy...
IC: That is one of the most touching stories I have ever come across. Sheila, can you also tell us how you view social networking tools and which ones you use to spread word about "Trouble"?
Sheila: I do lots of visits to schools, hospitals, book signings, etc. and find that I always meet people along the way who are so kind and more than willing to help out. By the same token I am also happy to help others along the way. It's all about paying it forward! I also have to say that interviews such as these are extremely helpful!
IC: Sheila, we're so glad you took the time out to answer our questions. I wish you, the lovely talented Kendra and "Trouble" much continued success in spreading hope and joy amongst our children - thank you!
If you would like to find out more about "Trouble" and how he is helping children, and what you can do to help, please visit www.troublesaysbetough.com
