Finding Strength in Connection: Ariadna’s Journey from Survivor to Supporter

In this episode of Girls with Grafts, Rachel talks with Ariadna Bernal about her journey after a gas explosion left her with burns over 90% of her body. Ariadna describes her early days, starting with treatment in Mexico and then continuing her care at Shriners Hospitals for Children in California. She also shares how important her mom was, always staying by her side through everything. ❤️ Together, they explore the emotional and mental side of recovery, including the moment Ariadna first connected with another burn survivor and realized she wasn’t alone. That connection became a turning point, inspiring her to give back through peer support. Ariadna explains how community, empathy, and shared experiences helped her heal in ways that medical care alone could not. Now a dedicated Phoenix SOAR Peer Supporter, Ariadna is actively involved in the Spanish Phoenix SOAR program, helping expand access and connection for Spanish-speaking survivors and families. She is also studying Psychology, hoping to work in a clinical setting, ideally at Shriners, to support children and teens after burn injuries. Her story shows how connection can turn pain into purpose. 🌟 #BurnSurvivor #GirlsWithGrafts #Podcast #SurvivorPodcast #BurnSurvivorStories ⭐️ Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors! Meet Our Guest A few years ago, Ariadna Bernal life changed completely after an explosion in her home caused by a gas buildup, which left her with severe burns over 90% of her body. It was a long and painful journey, but the unconditional support of her family and access to psychological care were key in helping her heal both physically and emotionally. Over time, she discovered the power of community by connecting with other burn survivors. Through a social worker at the hospital, she was introduced to this support network and given the opportunity to become a peer supporter. Since then, she has been actively involved, offering support through empathy and lived experience while accompanying others on their path to recovery. Ariadna is passionate about reading, music, painting on canvas, and spending time with family and friends. She is currently pursuing a degree in Psychology, with the goal of specializing in the clinical field. Her biggest dream is to one day work at Shriners Hospital for Children, where she is also a patient, so she can support children and teenagers who, like her, have faced the impact of burn injuries. Links Learn more about Phoenix SOAR: https://resources.phoenix-society.org/phoenix-soar Explore Phoenix Society’s Spanish resources: https://www.phoenix-society.org/spanish Read “Ariadna's Path from Pain to Purpose:” https://www.phoenix-society.org/resources/ariadnas-path-from-pain-to-purpose Podcast Sponsor Today’s podcast is powered by the National Fire Protection Association! NFPA is a nonprofit that seeks to save lives and reduce loss with information, knowledge, & passion. Learn more about fire safety and explore their educational resources by visiting www.nfpa.org. Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.