Jewel Explains Where Her Positive Mindset Comes From
Photo by Trae Patton/NBC Reading Time: 2 minutes
The four-time Grammy nominated singer Jewel, recently talked about her background and life story on Sherri Shepherd’s talk show. The singer is a strong advocate for mental health, raising awareness through the not alone challenge.
Jewel Was Homeless When She Had Her First Record Deal
Having humble beginnings is a common start for most high profile celebrities and artists today and Jewel is no different. Since then, the folk music icon has graced the world with over three decades of memorable and comforting songs.
During her guest appearance on Sherri, the talk show host began by pointing out Jewel’s great sense of humor. Jewel explained that the people who went through the most difficult times use humor to cope with their experiences.
Afterward, Jewel began to share details about her life growing up in Homer, Alaska and leaving home at only 15 years old. She ended up homeless one day after disagreeing to provide sexual favors to a former boss. She was left sleeping in her car, which was unfortunately stolen from her, forcing her to sleep on the streets.
During this time, she was discovered performing on the same streets, making ends meet. The two continued to talk about the singer’s newfound fame at the time, and how it was something she didn’t know how to properly handle. Afterward, Shepherd brought up the singer‘s latest album, Freewheelin’ Woman, which came after a seven-year break. The extensive break was done so that Jewel can focus on her family which she prioritizes over her work.
She Has Her Own Mental Health Awareness Campaign
Continuing with the subject of mental health, Jewel announced #NotAloneChallenge in partnership with iHeartRadio. Jewel is a strong advocate of raising awareness and puts her efforts in providing effective solutions for mental health.
The mission of the campaign is to raise funds to give free mental health resources available to those in need. Studies show that nearly 50% of Americans that do not have access to mental health resources and tools. Jewel plans to fix that by letting fans offer “heroic,” auction items, anything from handmade art to actual donations which are accepted with full appreciation.
At the same time, a portion of the proceeds will be donated to other foundations aiming to help at-risk youths. Jewel will be doing her part in making a difference in problems that can affect anybody in the world today. That admirable part of herself is what gives her the charisma that she’s maintained over many years.
