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So This is 50: The Journey of Hanna Olivas

by Hanna Olivas


Fifty years—an entire half-century of life, love, hardship, and triumph. For some, this milestone is simply a number, but for me, reaching 50 is nothing short of miraculous. It’s a celebration of resilience, faith, and an enduring spirit that has weathered every storm life could throw at me. I am Hanna Olivas: a wife, mother, “Glamma,” sister, daughter, friend, and serial entrepreneur. But more than any of those titles, I am a survivor—a woman who has fought for everything and refused to be defined by the hardships I’ve faced.


Growing up without a father left an imprint on my soul that could have easily broken me. When my father walked out on me, I was left to navigate life feeling fatherless and rejected. That abandonment left deep wounds, making me question my worth and leaving me craving the stability and love I saw others receive. But rather than letting that pain consume me, it became the fire that fueled my determination. The void he left behind inspired me to be the best mother I could possibly be. I promised myself that my children would never feel the emptiness and rejection I did. I would love them harder, fight for them fiercely, and never let them doubt how deeply they were cherished. Every time life tried to knock me down, I stood back up because I had them to fight for. The strength I found in motherhood has been the foundation of my life.

My journey has been anything but easy. In my early 40s, I was diagnosed with multiple myeloma, a diagnosis that shook my world to its core. Around the same time, I lost my son Mario when I was nearly nine months pregnant. That loss was devastating—a grief so profound I wasn’t sure I’d ever recover. My diagnosis had robbed me of more than just my health; it had taken my baby from me. The sorrow was suffocating, and I spiraled into deep depression, anxiety, and panic disorder. There were days when just getting out of bed was a victory, but through it all, I clung to my faith. My belief in God and the strength I drew from Him were my anchors. I learned that even in the darkest valleys, there is light—sometimes it’s just a flicker, but it’s enough to guide you through.


Through all of this, my husband, whom I’ve known since I was 13, has been my rock. Our love story is one of growth, partnership, and unwavering support. He is my source of strength, my confidant, and the one who has walked this journey beside me, never wavering in his love or commitment. We’ve faced life’s battles together, and our bond is something truly special. To have a partner who knows your soul, who sees your struggles, and still stands beside you is a gift I never take for granted.


Turning 50 is surreal. It’s a moment that makes you pause and reflect on all the years you’ve lived and the woman you’ve become. Life at 50 looks different—it feels different. I’m not the same woman I was at 20, 30, or even 40. At 50, I’m more attuned to what truly matters. I’ve learned to embrace life’s little pleasures, to prioritize what fills my soul, and to let go of what doesn’t serve me. I’m passionate about making an impact, creating spaces where women can rise, and continuing to pour into the things that matter most—my family, my faith, and the legacy I’m building.


Writing has become a significant part of my journey. I’ve authored or co-authored 56 books and counting, each one a testament to my commitment to inspiring and empowering others. Through writing, I’ve been able to share my story, amplify the voices of other women, and create a movement that’s all about becoming unstoppable. Writing is therapeutic; it’s where I can channel my experiences, emotions, and dreams into something tangible and lasting.


I’ve traveled the world, kissed dolphins, and walked red carpets. I’ve been blessed to experience things I once only dreamed of. But through all these experiences, it’s the simple joys that mean the most—time with my children, laughter with friends, and quiet moments with my husband. These are the things that ground me, the things that remind me of how precious life really is.


Let’s not forget—menopause is real! As if life hasn’t thrown enough at me, now I’m navigating the joys (and challenges) of this new phase. It’s another layer of transformation, another reminder that aging is as much about embracing change as it is about celebrating wisdom.  


Menopause has its own set of battles—hot flashes, mood swings, and all—but it’s also a time of reflection and growth. It’s a season where I’m learning to listen to my body, to nurture it, and to honor the changes it’s going through.


As I reach this milestone, I’m reminded of the importance of living with purpose. Every day is a gift, and I’m determined to make the most of each one. My journey has taught me that life is precious and fragile, and it’s up to us to fill it with meaning. I’ve fought for everything I have—for my health, my family, my voice, and my legacy. I’ve overcome deep wounds, loss, and battles that many would find impossible to bear. But here I stand, not just surviving, but thriving.


Fifty isn’t the end; it’s just the beginning of a new chapter. I have so much more to do, more to give, and more to create. I’m excited about the future and all the possibilities it holds. Whether it’s expanding my businesses, mentoring more women, or simply enjoying the beauty of everyday life, I’m stepping into this next chapter with grace, confidence, and a heart full of love.


This is 50—a beautiful blend of strength, wisdom, resilience, and love. Here’s to the next 50 years, filled with more dreams, more adventures, and more moments that make life worth living. The best is yet to come, and I’m ready to embrace it all with open arms.




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