8 Billion Ones
The YOU MATTER Movement
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BACKSTORIES

Our “Backstories” share a deeper ‘behind-the-scenes’ look at some of our stories, exhibitions and experiences in the making. It gives a snapshot into the moments that collectively went into creating the work we get to do every day. Sometimes it’s a more intimate portrait of one of our team here at RB/8 Billion Ones, and sometimes it’s about one of our incredible story heroes. Regardless, it’s our way of showing you a little more transparency so you get to witness the magic in so many of these moments the way we do.

Unity In Vulnerability - Autumn

I want to share a personal experience as to how powerful it can be to watch someone share their story. This feeling is infectious. I want you to feel this way too. I want to read more stories that make me laugh cry and provide perspective. I want you to share your story.


I’ve been along for a lot of the ride through Autumn’s battle with addiction. Her younger sister is my best friend and her family is like a second family to me. I remember my best friend going through the phases of accepting her sister’s addiction. Confusion, anger, sadness, acceptance. For the first few years I had been friends with her sister I had never met Autumn. I had heard stories, some followed with laughs and some with tears. To me she was just a family picture or a hushed topic of conversation.

Photo by Randy Bacon

Photo by Randy Bacon


Two years ago I got a text that Autumn would be coming home. I was so happy for my friend and her family. I knew they were all nervous about how it would play out. I didn’t know what to expect from her either. I hadn’t met her before and really only wanted the best for everyone. When Autumn got home, it was only up from there. She hit the ground running. I have gotten to watch her blossom into such a beautiful and inspiring person.


I recently joined the team at Seven Billion Ones. The first story I got to do all on my own from start to finish was Autumn’s and I think there is something so poetic in that. I spent my so long looking at her to see what NOT to do, and now here I am, soaking up every bit of wisdom I can get out of her.


Watching her share her story was beautiful. There is so much power in vulnerability. Her smile is contagious, she holds herself with such confidence in who she is, where she has been and where she is going. I loved looking in her eyes and seeing her so humbled and overjoyed. She did it. I think she felt that feeling all over again. And now she can help someone else get one step closer to feeling that way too. This is why I love hearing people's stories. There is always something to be learned, some way to be healed, and somebody to be saved. Speak up, someone is always listening.

Photo by Randy Bacon

Photo by Randy Bacon

Randy Bacon1 Comment