About Evelyn Rhodes

Hi, my name is Evelyn Rhodes, and I’d love to share a bit about myself. I’m a kind, loving person who believes in living life to the fullest, embracing laughter, and celebrating the success and happiness of others. My journey hasn’t been easy, but it has shaped me into the resilient and optimistic person I am today.

A Story of Resilience and Hope

At just 9 years old, I suffered a cerebral hemorrhage that led to a stroke, paralyzing the right side of my body. I spent two years in a children’s hospital, fighting to regain my strength and independence with the support of my incredible family, friends, and faith in God. My mother, Deborah Mercer, was my rock through it all, constantly reminding me, “You may be different, but you are never less.” This app is dedicated to her unwavering love and inspiration.

With her encouragement, I worked tirelessly to walk again, and through determination and rehabilitation, I did. I’ll never forget the joy of playing with my friends outside once more. When I couldn’t go outside, I found comfort in Disney movies, which taught me to dream big and believe that anything is possible.

Love for Music and Family

My grandmother, a talented speakeasy singer, also played a big role in my life. She introduced me to music, teaching me to sing and sparking a lifelong passion. Though she passed away on December 27, 2004, her memory continues to inspire me every day.

I grew up in a family of 10 siblings, ranging in age from 50 to 19. While life wasn’t always easy, our family has always been built on love, hard work, and support for one another. My father instilled in me the values of faith, wisdom, and standing for something meaningful in this world.

Today and the Future

Now, with my children grown and my daughter making me a proud grandma, I’ve embraced a new chapter. I sold my farm and now live on a boat in St. Petersburg, Florida, with my loyal companions, Patience (my cat) and Lassie (my dog). I work part-time at the Sip and Scoop while enjoying my well-deserved retirement.

Though my health continues to challenge me—having endured three more strokes, muscle disease, joint disease, and a congenital heart condition—I wake up every day with gratitude and a fighting spirit. I firmly believe that with God, anything is possible.

My Vision for the Future

Creating this app, Rizz, represents my dream of leaving a positive impact on the world. I want it to be a platform that inspires connection, creativity, and joy—just like the values I hold close.

To anyone reading this: never give up, keep dreaming, and always remember, as my mom taught me, “You may be different, but you are never less.”

Thank you for letting me share my story. I’m excited for what’s ahead and hope to make a difference in the lives of others through this app and beyond.

Life’s Challenges and Triumphs

Despite battling stomach cancer, caring for my mother after her heart attack, and navigating life’s ups and downs, I never gave up. At 19, I became a proud mom to my daughter Maralyn and my son Thomas. Though their father and I eventually parted ways, I’m grateful for the wonderful family we built and the love we share.

Throughout my life, I’ve pursued every experience I could—serving in JROTC, firefighting, driving semis, and even running a small farm where I raised my children surrounded by animals and nature. It was my way of living fully and defying the odds set by doctors who said I’d have a short life.