**Episode Title:** What if the Darkest Moment of Your Life Became the Doorway to the Divine? Heather Vandermeyden

Three months in ICU, Twenty Near-Death Experiences; The Remarkable story of survival and awakening

Connect with Heather Vandermeyden: https://heathervandermeyden.com/ 

She is the author of “ Miracles from the Other Side” 

Connect with Bernadette Thompson: https://www.tellmeourstory.com/ 

- International Association for Near-Death Studies: [Website](https://www.iands.org/)
- Books on Near-Death Experiences: "Proof of Heaven" by Dr. Eben Alexander, "After" by Dr. Bruce Greyson. “Life After Life” by Dr. Raymond Moody
- EMDR Therapy: [EMDR International Association](https://www.emdria.org/)


In this profound and moving episode of "How I Made It Through," host Bernadette Thompson welcomes Heather Vandermeyden, whose life journey took a remarkable turn through a series of near-death experiences (NDEs). Born in Salt Lake City, Utah, Heather's deep connection to nature and spirituality guided her through a life-altering health crisis. At the age of 19, Heather was diagnosed with severe ulcerative colitis, leading to a series of critical medical emergencies and multiple surgeries. 

During these harrowing experiences, Heather encountered profound spiritual realms and divine love that transformed her understanding of life and death. Her story is one of resilience, faith, and the enduring connection between this world and the next. Heather's NDEs provided her with insights into the afterlife, consciousness, and the healing power of love and prayer. 

This episode offers comfort and hope to anyone facing illness or supporting a loved one through a health crisis. Heather's gentle and calming recounting of her experiences provides a unique perspective on the intersection of life, death, and spirituality.

**Chapter Markers:**

- **[00:00 ] Introduction**
- Bernadette introduces Heather Vandermeyden and sets the stage for the conversation about her near-death experiences.

- **[03:00 ] Heather's Early Life and Diagnosis**
- Heather shares her background and the onset of her illness, leading to her first NDE.

- **[06:00 ] The First Near-Death Experience**
- Heather describes her initial encounter with the divine voice and the beginning of her spiritual journey.

- **[09:00 ] Medical Crisis and Spiritual Awakening**
- Details of Heather's critical health condition and the profound spiritual experiences during her surgeries.

- **[12:00 ] The Realm of Love and Healing**
- Heather recounts her experiences in a realm of immense love and healing, meeting ancestors and spiritual guides.

- **[15:00 ] The Library of Knowledge**
- A visit to a mystical library where Heather encountered ancient wisdom.

- **[18:00 ] Angels and Divine Guidance**
- Heather's interactions with guardian angels and their role in her healing journey.

- **[21:00 ] The Power of Prayer and Faith**
- Insights into how prayer and faith contributed to Heather's survival and healing.

- **[24:00 ] Validations and Lessons Learned**
- Heather discusses the validations of her experiences and the lessons she has learned about life and the afterlife.

**Resources:**

- International Association for Near-Death Studies: [Website](https://www.iands.org/)
- Books on Near-Death Experiences: "Proof of Heaven" by Dr. Eben Alexander, "After" by Dr. Bruce Greyson
- EMDR Therapy: [EMDR International Association](https://www.emdria.org/)

**Call-to-Action:**

If Heather's story resonated with you, please share this episode with someone who might benefit from hearing about the healing power of love and the existence of life beyond our earthly experience. Subscribe to "How I Made It Through" for more inspiring stories of transformation and resilience. Don't forget to leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform to help others discover these powerful narratives. Join our community on social media to continue the conversation and connect with like-minded individuals.