Healing Words Featured on WDBJ7: Sharing Our Mission

Healing Words, a new Smith Mountain Lake-based nonprofit, will officially launch with a community celebration this Saturday.

Here @ Home welcomed two of the non-profit founders to talk about the organization and its mission. Healing Words will support local transplant recipients, living donors, donor families and caregivers.

Healing Words, a 501(c)(3) organization, was founded by lake residents Tim Pearson and Dana Montgomery after Pearson’s unexpected battle with end-stage liver failure and his lifesaving transplant in 2025.

His experience revealed how deeply transplant patients and their families need emotional, educational and peer support throughout the journey.

“Our community needs more than medical care,” Pearson said, “We need connection, understanding, encouragement, and a place where real healing can flourish. Healing Words was created to nurture hope, honor donors, uplift every voice, and remind people that they are never alone in this process.”

The March 7 celebration will bring together recipients, donors, caregivers and supporters to raise awareness about organ transplant needs and highlight the life-saving role of living and deceased donors. Pearson said Healing Words welcomes local businesses, individuals and organizations interested in becoming sponsors or partners.

Be sure to plan to attend this special event on Saturday, March 7 from 1-6 p.m. at Hot Shots Bar & Grill Pavilion in Moneta.

The free event will feature live music by Martin & Kelly, Big Daddy Ray, and Justin Prillaman, as well as guest speakers, a silent auction and information on how the organization will support local transplant recipients, living donors, donor families and caregivers.