Sonya Jackson

I'm Sonya Jackson, a dynamic motivational speaker, designer, patient and innovator of the Ventri-Bag; groundbreaking artificial heart medical waist bag designed to revolutionize how individuals carry and access their heart device.

The medical waist bag combines functionality with style, featuring customizable design, durable materials, and a comfortable design for all-day wear. Its practicality and potential to improve the lives of individuals managing an end stage heart failure condition; makes it a must-have accessory for patients.

Investing in this medical waist bag means prioritizing convenience, safety, and peace of mind for fast access to your device. Join me in revolutionizing the way we carry and access Left Ventricular Assist Devices, making life easier and safer for all.

What was the catalyst for you stepping into this work? How did you end up here, at this moment, doing what you do?

My catalyst into this work was sparked by my personal experiences as a patient managing end-stage heart failure with this foreign LVAD machine. After receiving a Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD), I faced significant challenges in carrying and accessing my heart device comfortably. This experience motivated me to create a solution that could help not only myself but also others in similar situations.

I’m currently working on finalizing the patterns for the Ventri-Bag, a medical waist bag designed specifically for heart device users, which will be released soon. My mission is to combine functionality with fashion, ensuring that individuals can carry their devices with ease and confidence.

In addition to my work on the Ventri-Bag, I am a dynamic public speaker advocating for breast cancer and heart failure awareness. I share my journey through my clothing line, which reflects my experiences and aims to inspire others facing similar challenges. At this moment, I’m deeply committed to using my voice and my platform to raise awareness and support for these important issues.

I believe the Ventri-Bag will not only prioritize convenience and safety for patients but also empower them to express their individuality. I’m excited to share this innovation and continue making a positive impact on the lives of fellow patients.

What do you hope people get from working with you or interacting with your services?

From interacting with the SJ Lifestyle Brand, I hope people experience a sense of empowerment and joy. The brand aims to combine fashion with functionality, making it not just a clothing line but a source of inspiration. By advocating for medical approval, we strive to make stylish, affordable options accessible to all patients. Ultimately, I want individuals to feel confident and supported, knowing that their purchase contributes to a greater movement that brings fashion into the medical space.

What do you wish was different about the way we are supported when dying, grieving, and navigating end-of-life in general? What would you change?

As a dynamic public speaker, designer, and innovator at the intersection of medical and fashion, I wish for a more compassionate and holistic approach to supporting individuals during end-of-life experiences. I believe that the current support systems often lack personalization and emotional resonance. 

I would change the focus to include not just medical care, but also emotional and aesthetic support. This could involve creating environments that are not only comfortable but also visually uplifting, allowing individuals and their families to express their identities and emotions through fashion and design. 

I envision workshops and resources that empower people to share their stories and celebrate life, even in the face of grief. By integrating creativity and personal expression into the grieving process, we can foster deeper connections and provide a more meaningful support system during such a challenging time.  

What would you say to someone who is nervous about attending events about death or grief?

I would say to someone feeling nervous about attending events focused on death or grief that it's completely natural to feel that way. These topics can be incredibly challenging, but these events also offer a unique opportunity for connection, healing, and understanding. 

I encourage you to view it as a space to share your feelings and experiences with others who may be going through similar challenges. It’s a chance to learn, to express yourself, and to find support in a community that understands. Remember, you don’t have to have all the answers or know exactly what to say; simply being present and open can be a powerful step. 

Additionally, I believe that incorporating elements of creativity and personal expression—like fashion or art—can make these events feel more inviting and transformative. You might find that sharing in this space can bring comfort and even joy amidst the difficult conversations. You're not alone, and it's okay to take this step at your own pace.

If someone meets you at the resource fair - what's a question you invite them to ask you? 

I invite them to ask me, "What inspired you to bring fashion into the conversation about grief and end-of-life care?" This question allows me to share my journey and the vision behind my work, highlighting the importance of personal expression and how it can foster healing and connection during challenging moments. I believe that understanding the 'why' behind my passion can inspire others to think differently about these topics.