First-Hand Experience MattersLessons Learned Through Storms, Recovery, and Planning Ahead

First-Hand Experience MattersLessons Learned Through Storms, Recovery, and Planning Ahead

Sea MindCare Consulting, LLC

Your Voice. Their Peace.
Tu Voz. Su Paz.

As hurricane season approaches, I often find myself thinking about the storms I have experienced over the years and the lessons they taught me.

Preparedness is one of those things most of us know is important. Yet, like many people, I have learned that knowing what to do and actually doing it are not always the same thing.

As a child, I experienced Hurricane Hugo in 1989. We were not fully prepared. We stayed in our home and hoped for the best. Looking back, we were fortunate. A family member who worked for TWA Airlines was able to get ice, water, food, and other essentials. We shared what we had with neighbors, and I saw firsthand how people come together when times are difficult.

Years later, Hurricanes Charley, Frances, and Jeanne in 2004 taught me different lessons. Roof damage, power outages, moisture, mold, and the challenges that come after a storm showed me that preparedness is about more than buying supplies. It is also about protecting them. Some of the items we thought would help us recover were damaged because they were not stored properly.

Later, winter storms and snow emergencies taught similar lessons. The weather was different, but the challenges were often the same. Roads closed, power went out, travel became difficult, and everyday routines were disrupted. It reminded me that preparation matters no matter where you live.

One thing I don't mind admitting is this:

Even after earning a Master of Science in Emergency Management, volunteering in disaster response efforts, and helping others prepare, there was a time when my own emergency bag was not ready.

Life gets busy.

Work gets busy.

Family responsibilities, caregiving, school, volunteering, and everyday life can easily push preparedness to the bottom of the list.

That realization was humbling.

It reminded me that preparedness is not about being perfect. It is about taking small steps before they become urgent.

Today, when I talk about preparedness, I simply share what life has taught me.

Those lessons did not come only from school or training.

They came from storms, recovery, helping others, and learning along the way.

Over the years, one thing has become clear:

A little preparation can go a long way.

It can reduce stress when life becomes uncertain.

It can help avoid unnecessary expenses.

It can make decision-making easier during difficult moments.

Most importantly, it can provide peace of mind.

Not because everything will go perfectly, but because a few simple steps were taken before they became necessary.

At Sea MindCare Consulting, LLC, preparedness is not our primary mission.

The heart of our work is helping people preserve their voice—their wishes, values, guidance, and the information they want their loved ones to know.

That is why our motto is:

Your Voice. Their Peace.Tu Voz. Su Paz.

Preparedness is simply another way of planning ahead.

The voice is the mission.

Preparedness is a bonus.

Both can help bring peace of mind to ourselves and the people we love.

As you prepare for hurricane season, take a few minutes to review your supplies, replace expired items, organize important documents, and have conversations with the people who matter most.

You do not have to do everything at once.

Just start somewhere.

Small steps today can make a big difference tomorrow.

Your Voice. Their Peace. Tu Voz. Su Paz.

Marjorie K. Figaroa
Founder & Consultant
Sea MindCare Consulting, LLC

1101 N Harbor City Blvd #B, Melbourne, FL 32935

(321) 385-7774

[email protected]

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