Carroll's Light: Mother's Program

Created in loving memory of Carroll Powers—a radiant soul whose joy, compassion, and boundless warmth brought light into every life she touched—Carroll’s Light offers a nurturing space for mothers in recovery, and those healing from trauma or loss. Carroll had an extraordinary gift for uncovering beauty in nature and laughter in the everyday. Though her journey with mental health and addiction ended in 2022, this program carries forward her legacy of hope, resilience, and love.

Grounded in holistic self-care education, community connection, and emotional healing, this program invites mothers to rediscover their inner light in a safe, supportive, and inspiring environment. Whether you’re rebuilding, reconnecting, or simply resting, Carroll’s Light is a compassionate container for transformation and belonging—rooted in the belief that healing is not only possible, but deeply personal and powerfully communal.

What to expect during Carroll’s Light gatherings:

• Mindful and expressive art to support emotional release and healing
• Guided discussions on recovery, trauma, parenting, and stress management
• Access to resources on mental health, recovery, and community support networks
• A safe and supportive environment to reduce isolation and strengthen resilience

Your facilitators:

Kate Gardner
Kate is a deeply experienced and heart-centered nurse who has spent over 30 years supporting the health and well-being of mothers across many aspects of care. With 16 years dedicated to perinatal nursing, she has walked alongside countless women from pregnancy through postpartum recovery. For more than two decades, she has also held space for those navigating pregnancy loss—offering quiet strength, compassion, and understanding. Kate holds certifications in grief counseling and as a Trauma-Informed Professional (TIP), and she is Reiki certified. Known lovingly as the overnight “Mama Kate” at our JPH Cottage retreats, she brings an unwavering presence, gentle wisdom, and an abiding sense of care to all who gather around her.

Mary (Blanco) Powers
Mary is Carroll’s sister and a gifted holistic practitioner whose personal healing journey continues to illuminate her professional path. A trauma survivor and woman in long-term recovery, she offers a unique blend of lived experience, deep intuition, and integrative healing practices. Mary is a Reiki Master and certified Trauma-Informed Professional (TIP), infusing every interaction with restorative energy and grounded compassion. Her wisdom is both personal and practiced—rooted in resilience, tenderness, and a commitment to walking beside others as they rediscover their light. Through her presence, Mary offers love, support, and healing that beautifully echo Carroll’s legacy and spirit.