Having Joy, Grit, and Grace in Any Season: Amberly Lago’s Story of Resilience & Joy through the Journey
Author: Jess Dahl
September 27, 2025
Some stories are impossible to forget because they remind us of the incredible resilience of the human spirit. Amberly Lago’s journey is one of those stories. A motivational speaker, best-selling author, and true warrior, Amberly has faced unimaginable challenges and turned them into a story of hope, strength, and purpose.
I had the privilege of speaking with Amberly on the Say Yes Anyway Podcast, and her story is a testament to how saying yes to healing, connection, and life itself can transform even the darkest seasons into a source of strength.
From Tragedy to Transformation
Amberly’s journey took a dramatic turn when a life-changing motorcycle accident left her with severe injuries. She underwent 34 surgeries and was diagnosed with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), a debilitating nerve condition often referred to as the “suicide disease.”
For many, this could have been the end of hope. For Amberly, it became a call to discover how much strength and resilience the human spirit is capable of.
The Battle Within
Physical pain was only part of the challenge. Amberly also candidly shares her struggle with alcoholism, a coping mechanism she turned to in order to numb both physical and emotional pain. It wasn’t until she faced her breaking point that she realized she needed help and she made a courageous choice to say yes to healing.
From that moment, her life began a new chapter. Every small step, every incremental goal, became a building block toward reclaiming her independence and her life. Amberly’s journey shows us that progress doesn’t have to be monumental to be meaningful, sometimes the smallest victories carry the greatest significance.
Finding Strength Through Purpose
One of Amberly’s greatest motivators throughout her recovery was her daughters. She shares how her love for them gave her the courage to push forward, even when every day felt impossible. Her “why” became the fuel for her resilience, showing that even in the hardest seasons, purpose can carry us through.
Community and connection also played a vital role in Amberly’s healing. She emphasizes the importance of surrounding yourself with supportive, optimistic people who hold you accountable, celebrate your wins, and help you rise when you fall.
Joy Through the Journey
Amberly’s new book, Joy Through the Journey, dives even deeper into how she learned to find joy in the midst of hardship. Her story reminds us that joy is not the absence of struggle, it is the ability to find light even when life feels dark.
Her journey is a powerful example of how pain can be transformed into purpose. It is a reminder that no matter what challenges we face, resilience, grace, and determination can guide us toward healing and empowerment.
Lessons from Amberly
Amberly’s story offers lessons that we can all apply to our own lives:
- Courage doesn’t mean the absence of fear, it means moving forward despite it.
- Small, attainable goals can rebuild even the most shattered life.
- Connection, community, and accountability are essential for lasting transformation.
- Purpose and love can be the strongest motivators when life feels unbearable.
If you are facing challenges, Amberly’s journey is a powerful reminder that you already have the strength within you to overcome, heal, and thrive.
Connect with Amberly
Learn more about Amberly Lago and explore her work here:
Website: amberlylago.com
Instagram: @amberlylagomotivation
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Listen to the full episode here, leave a review and tag me if you share =)
Thank you for tuning in. Keep saying yes to the moments that ignite your soul and transform your life.
Jess Dahl
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