What do popcorn, Black business, and transplants have in common? They are topics of discussion for two friends, Julie Logan (a 17-year breast cancer survivor) and Kenn Wiggins (a liver and kidney recipient) who met through a mutual friend as members of The Park Church Ministries. Julie auditioned for a role in one of the productions Kenn had written for the church. When she learned she had been cast and chosen for the role, Julie said, “that was the beginning of a beautiful and lasting friendship.” She went on to say, “I call Kenn my little brother, because I am older and we share similar experiences and life stories in so many ways, as if we were family. We have a connection that can never be broken. Kenn is the most talented, gifted, and anointed Man of God that I know. His heart and love for the arts, and people are truly genuine and phenomenal. He will ALWAYS have my support.”
Kenn, who was the Worship Arts/Drama Ministry Leader at their church said, “While writing an Easter play, I envisioned Julie singing one of the songs that I was writing. I loved Julie’s voice and knew that hers would be perfect for the song. Not knowing if she was an actor, I asked Julie to audition, and her being cast in the role led to a friendship that has lasted well over 10-years.”
Since August is National Black Business Month, Kenn decided to support his friend by popping in for a visit at Popcorn Heaven in the Steele Creek neighborhood of Charlotte, NC, where Julie is the owner. According to Julie, “Popcorn Heaven-Steele Creek is becoming a well-known staple in the Charlotte market. So much so that rock band singer, Tommy Decarlo from the legendary rock band Boston, visits the store quite often. Also, DJ Shakim, DJ for legendary singing group, New Edition, popped by the store while in Charlotte. So, you never know "WHO" (Local or National celebrity) you may run into at Popcorn Heaven-Steele Creek.
When reflecting upon her experience as a Black business owner, Julie said,
“Sometimes, it feels like I have to work twice as hard to prove my value, worth and what I can bring to the table. However, at the end of the day, what's important to me is delivering a quality product and great customer service along with keeping a great support system and like-minded people in your corner. Tell people WHO you are and WHAT you offer. Overall, my mission at Popcorn Heaven-Steele Creek, is to ensure that EVERY customer leaves with a smile on their face. They may not enter the store with a smile, but I can guarantee that by the time they leave my store, their mind and their senses will be in Popcorn Heaven!
When the two friends sat down during Kenn’s recent visit, they reminisced about their businesses and how they both overcame health issues. Kenn, is living proof that miracles do happen. At age 25, he was diagnosed with a rare autoimmune disease that destroyed his liver. He worked with doctors at Carolina’s Medical Center (Atrium Health) and received his first organ transplant at the age of 30. Five years later, the disease destroyed his new liver and kidneys. The complexity of a new multi-organ transplant required Kenn to work with a specialized hospital. Kenn credits Duke University with saving his life.
As a minority who has received multiple organ transplants, Kenn actively shares his story with whomever will listen. “Organ donation saved my life, I want to motivate others to help save someone else’s life,” said Kenn. His recovery stunned his entire medical team. Today, a few years after receiving a kidney transplant and a second liver, Kenn who’s now 43, is feeling great.
Julie said about her friend, “Kenn's organ transplant experience, is nothing but a blessing and miracle. One of my favorite scriptures is Jeremiah 29:11 says, ‘For I know the plans I have for you, declared the Lord. Plans to prosper you not to harm you. Plans to give you hope and a future.’ There truly was something more God had in store for Kenn – a story, a film, a movie that so many others need to hear about.”
Since recuperating from his transplants, Kenn now taps into his passion as the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of a local digital media company, RamaWord Productions. He produces a bi-monthly digital show, titled ‘You Can’t Make This Up’. Julie from Popcorn Heaven-Steele Creek was the first story told by Kenn’s company.
Consider signing up on the organ donor registry today!
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http://www.popcornheaven-steelecreek.com/