”HIDDEN 💎: IN LOVING MEMORY OF REGINA GAZELLE.”

The Lambda Center here in Phoenix often hosts guest speakers on special occasions and recovery-related events. On one particular evening, I decided to attend for fellowship and to hear the story of the speaker who had been invited to share. As I walked in and found a seat, I had no idea that the beautifully dressed woman sitting in the front row would soon be introduced as that evening's speaker. That woman was Regina. It's no secret that, like myself, Regina struggled with addiction. Yet she chose to use her experiences to help others who were still fighting for their sobriety. Whether I was in recovery or struggling with relapse at the time, I'm not entirely sure. What I do know is that I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to hear her speak and eventually form a connection with her that extended beyond the walls of the Lambda Center. When Regina's name was called and she stepped forward to share her story, I was immediately captivated by her elegance, confidence, and presence. Over the years, I had heard many people tell their stories at Lambda, but hearing one from the perspective of an African American woman resonated with me in a unique way. Addiction affects people from all walks of life, yet each person's experience is shaped by their own background, identity, and circumstances. Listening to Regina felt familiar and deeply personal because parts of her story reflected pieces of my own journey. Her presentation took us through a range of emotions—from laughter and sarcasm to moments that brought many of us to tears. By the time she finished speaking, I knew I wanted to thank her personally for sharing so openly and honestly. After the meeting ended, we spent some time talking before eventually exchanging phone numbers. I told her it would be an honor to interview her on my podcast one day. Unfortunately, that opportunity never came to pass. Instead, we maintained a connection through social media, occasionally commenting on one another's posts and supporting each other from afar. During a recent meditation, I found myself praying for Regina and asking God to have mercy upon her soul. She was, and continues to be, a vessel through which hope, healing, and inspiration were shared with others—especially those still battling addiction. One of my regrets is that I never developed a deeper personal friendship with her. Yet I find comfort in believing that relationships do not end simply because someone's physical presence is gone. The impact they leave behind continues to live on in the hearts of those they touched. Regina, thank you for inspiring me to continue sharing my own story. Your courage that night at Lambda left a lasting impression on me. You were a gift not only to the LGBTQ+ community but to people from all walks of life. Your voice, your spirit, and your willingness to be vulnerable helped others feel less alone. Continue shining as brightly in spirit as you did here on Earth. You will be deeply missed. Though my dream of interviewing you never became reality, I am grateful that our paths crossed when they did. May you rest peacefully in God's loving embrace. My heartfelt condolences go out to your family, friends, and all those whose lives were blessed by your presence. With love and gratitude, Silence     Music Disclaimer: The music featured in this episode is used for inspirational and entertainment purposes only. I do not own the rights to the music, and all rights remain the property of their respective owners.