Scheri Force and her husband, Al, a local barber in Lexington, South Carolina, relocated from Columbus, Ohio, over two decades ago. Their move marked a significant transition in their lives. However, years earlier, in the late 1990s, Scheri’s life changed when she was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). She refused to allow the new diagnosis to control her or restrict her from doing the things she loved. She worked diligently each day to make sure her life was full of purpose. Her determination to live fully through her diagnosis inspired her to create something that would extend support to others struggling with chronic illnesses. She knew there was a need and realized she was uniquely qualified since she, too, was walking the path of a chronic illness herself.
In 2018, Force felt called to resign from her current job, where she had worked for many years, and start a nonprofit to help those in similar health situations as her own. From there, the Uplift Encouragement Group was born. The nonprofit organization dedicates itself to fostering relationships and building a support network for individuals navigating the challenges of living with chronic illnesses. The mission is simple, said Force, “provide support networks for people living with chronic illnesses/disabilities that educate, empower, empathize, and encourage. Uplift is a place to be understood and accepted, where we are the same because of our differences.”
Force’s commitment to the nonprofit exemplifies her desire to build a community where members feel accepted and valued, regardless of their diagnosis. “Through the efforts, advocacy, support, and contributions of this 501(c) group, not one person will be isolated, rejected, or neglected due to a chronic illness or disability,” Force said.
The Uplift Encouragement Group meets on the 4th Thursday of each month from 6-8 pm in the Fellowship Hall at First Baptist Church of Lexington, located at 415 Barr Road. There is no sign up so come as you are, when you are able. The Uplift Encouragement Group meetings host leaders and speakers from the area who cover a variety of topics, helping people manage their conditions and live their most fulfilling lives.
Force believes that education is power and the more that people learn about their conditions and the resources available to them, the better equipped they are to thrive. Her desire is that by bringing in speakers, their discussions will shine a light on issues that matter in regard to chronic illness. In addition to regular meetings, the Uplift Encouragement Group provides opportunities for members to engage socially through fun activities and participate in community projects tailored to those living with chronic illnesses. These events help grow and strengthen friendships and foster a sense of belonging for those who often feel isolated by their conditions. “The goal for every Uplift member is to become a positive, valuable, and productive resource as we encourage others along our paths,” shared Force.
Despite the incredible work happening through Uplift, the nonprofit currently faces the challenge of spreading the word about who they are, their mission, and what they can offer to others. Force emphasized the need for more volunteers to help get Uplift’s mission shared through word of mouth and social media channels. Funding is also a top priority for the nonprofit, and she would like to find a grant writer who could help her with the process as Uplift begins to expand into new counties, including Charlotte and Asheville, in the upcoming year. Currently, Uplift has established chapters in Lexington, Greenville, and Charleston, South Carolina, with a new chapter in Raleigh, North Carolina, set to open soon.
Force is grateful for her husband’s support. He has been by her side throughout this whole journey and seen her grow in her leadership and continued determination. “He is my rock and partner with the Uplift Encouragement Group. We have been married for 31 years, and I can’t imagine going through all of this without him,” she reflected. Their relationship is a reminder of love and support in the face of adversity, echoing what Uplift stands for in its mission to bring people together to celebrate the differences that link them to each other.
If you, a loved one, or a friend face the challenge of a chronic illness or disability, the Uplift Encouragement Group invites you to join them and become a part of the community. For more information, visit their website.