top of page
Meagan Oberle, In the Blink Asset 33-100.jpg
Meagan Oberle, In the Blink Asset 13.png

Honest. Human. Real.

Each story is different—but you’ll find shared humanity in every conversation. These episodes aren’t about fixing anything. They’re about reminding you that you’re not the only one learning to live with loss.

​

21. Ronni Vlaminck | Stormy’s Brave Beginning



This heartfelt episode shares the true story behind Stormy’s Brave Beginning, a children’s book inspired by a tiny, injured kitten rescued during a season of burnout, grief, and transition. Author Ronni Vlaminck reflects on how love, kindness, and quiet bravery shaped both Stormy’s healing journey and her own, offering a gentle reminder that even after loss, overwhelm, or feeling “different,” life can still unfold beautifully with compassion and support.


“Just because something happens to you that doesn't really define who you are or what your outcome is going to be.” - Ronni Vlaminck


Key Points:


  • Small acts of kindness can completely change a life: One simple decision to stop, notice suffering, and help became the turning point not only for Stormy, but for an entire family’s story. 

  • Healing doesn’t erase pain; it grows alongside it: Stormy’s recovery and Ronni’s personal journey show that love doesn’t remove past trauma, but allows something meaningful to exist beside it. 

  • Being different doesn’t mean being broken: Stormy’s one eye is never framed as a limitation, reinforcing the message that challenges don’t define worth, identity, or future potential. 

  • Love creates safety, and safety allows healing: The episode highlights how consistent care, gentleness, and presence create the emotional foundation needed for true healing to happen. 

  • Stories can help children process grief without overwhelming them: By telling the story quietly and tenderly, the book gives kids space to feel, relate, and find hope without being confronted by heavy language. 

  • Unexpected life changes can open doors to meaningful purpose: What began as burnout and transition ultimately led to creativity, authorship, and a new way to serve children who are struggling



About Ronni Vlaminck:


Ronni Vlaminck is a mom, physical therapist assistant, and small business owner who works alongside her husband in their family business. After years of supporting others and navigating significant personal loss, Ronni chose not to let those experiences define her — instead, she followed an unexpected creative spark that changed everything.


That spark arrived when her husband rescued a tiny, sick kitten from the side of the road. Stormy, who later lost one eye, quickly became part of their family and inspired Ronni to write Stormy’s Brave Beginning — a children’s book about courage, second chances, and finding a place where you belong.


Dive into the Stormy world—find Ronni books, download free coloring pages, and shop the merch on her website!




Apply for a prosthetic eye here: www.intheblinkltd.com

Comments

bottom of page