About Us

Transforming lives, one heart at a time

Our non-profit organization, founded by Elza Spaedy, is dedicated to healing the minds and souls of those affected by assault and abuse through the transformative power of faith and community support. As a survivor herself, Elza understands the profound impact of these experiences and has channeled her journey into creating a haven for others seeking solace and recovery. Our mission is to provide compassionate care, spiritual guidance, and a supportive network to help individuals reclaim their lives and find peace. With the help of our devoted community, we strive to empower survivors and foster an environment where healing and hope can flourish.

Elza Spaedy

Founder, Progam Director

Elza grew up in Brazil as part of a big, lively family with seven brothers and three sisters. Having walked through her own journey of healing from childhood trauma of sexual abuse, Elza now feels called to share her story and help others find hope and restoration. Her faith has become the heart of her mission, and she loves seeing others experience true healing.

Elza is the author of Freedom Through Christ, Healed and Restored, and Spiritual Mentoring. She leads retreats that create safe spaces for women to heal and grow. In 2020, she founded Healed and Restored to support women recovering from all types of trauma, offering encouragement and community along the way.

At home, Elza is happiest entertaining family and friends. She loves preparing a wonderful meal and gathering loved ones around her table to share stories, laughter, and joy. Elza’s warmth and compassion inspire everyone she meets, and she feels blessed to be part of each person’s healing journey.

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Meet Our Board of Directors

Meet our dedicated Board of Directors, committed to guiding our mission and fostering healing for those we serve.

Jennifer Bhojwani

Jennifer has practiced obstetrics and gynecology in Charlotte for over 20 years, dedicated to caring for women and addressing trauma. During her own cancer journey, she relied on her faith for strength. Jennifer enjoys running, traveling, and spending time with her husband, three children, and two pups.

Heidi Bauders

Heidi has been a corporate lawyer for 20 years, specializing in technology and outsourced services transactions. She has served as legal counsel for several nonprofits and is honored to use her expertise to support Healed and Restored in helping women find healing through faith. Heidi lives in Davidson with her husband of 20 years, their two teenage children, and a loving golden retriever.

Witlee Ethan

Witlee is a Certified Coach, Inspirational Speaker, Contributing Author, Host of the Live Each Day With Purpose Podcast, and Victim Advocate for Legislative Reform. In 2018, Witlee was recognized by ACA Event Solutions for her advocacy work in the fight to end domestic violence in NC and received their highest recognition, the Pearl Award. In 2023, she wrote a bill to protect the rights of victims and survivors of sexual assault Witlee is also actively involved in her community and church.

Gary Breit

Gary has 25 years of consulting experience, managing teams of 10-20 members and overseeing budgets of $50-100M. He is currently the formation leader for the 2021 Welcome Retreat at St. Mark, mentoring 50 men to come closer to Jesus through testimonials and fellowship. Celebrating 25 years of marriage, Gary enjoys communing with God through cooking, hiking, and running.

Father John Putnam

Growing up in Newton, NC, John was captivated by the 1978 media coverage of Pope Paul VI's death and the subsequent papal elections. Invited to Mass by a local priest at 14, he felt an immediate connection and converted at 16. Ordained in 1992 for the Diocese of Charlotte, he later earned a licentiate in Canon Law from The Catholic University of America. With over 25 years as a Catholic priest, he is now the pastor of St. Mark in Huntersville and serves on the Presbyteral Council, the College of Consultors, and the Diocese Vocations Board.

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Elza Spaedy understands the trauma that many young girls endure. As an abuse survivor, Elza aches for girls to experience community connection, heart healing and a safe place to receive both. Healed and Restored is such a place. It is a residential counseling and healing program designed to help women with the devastating effects of physical abuse, sexual abuse and sex trafficking. This impactful ministry is a much needed healing balm over a hurting population of the Church.

Carrie Daunt

Author of Undone: Freeing your Feminine Heart from the Knots of Fear and Shame.