From Struggles to Strength: How One Artist Invests in Herself to Chase Her Dreams
Overcoming early health challenges, 22-year-old Eagle resident Hannah Strumner has turned her passion for music into a global inspiration.
From the start, school was difficult for Hannah. “I faced health issues from an early age, and my classmates often picked on me because they didn’t understand what was going on,” she recalls. “I’d come home from school and sing or write about my day. Music connected me with others and helped me feel less isolated.”
In 2018, Hannah moved from Burbank, California, to Eagle, Idaho, seeking a fresh start. Two years later, she received a Type 1 Diabetes diagnosis, yet she refused to let this define her. Instead, she drew strength from her music, using it as a beacon of hope and a bridge to connect with others facing challenges. Her 2020 release, "Old Phone Line," highlighted her daily struggle with insulin dependency.
When COVID-19 hit, Hannah took to livestreaming to stay connected with friends and family, but her message quickly reached a global audience. Her Instagram following grew to over 190,000, transforming her social media presence into a powerful tool for connection.
Hannah’s decision to share her story with the American Diabetes Association marked a turning point. “I’ve heard countless stories from people diagnosed with health challenges, and it really helped me. You bond over what you’ve lost,” she shared.
Investing in Herself
With each performance, Hannah recognized the importance of setting goals and staying focused on her vision. “For me, investing in music means setting both short-term and long-term goals,” she said. “I create a vision board every year to track progress, celebrate achievements, and remind myself to keep chasing my dreams. I also journal about the places I’ve performed, cherishing those experiences.”
Chasing Dreams in Nashville
Hannah’s hard work resulted in a dream come true when she traveled to Nashville in September 2024. Surrounded by a talented team of songwriters, musicians, and producers, she worked to write new material. “Nashville was a blast! I loved collaborating with others who shared the same passion for music. It’s a special bond,” she said.
Investing in the Future
Locally, Hannah has built a strong presence in the Treasure Valley music scene, performing at iconic events like the Boise Potato Drop and the Boise Jump Jam and Jive. She will soon open for local artist Stella Prince at the Egyptian Theatre. In 2022, she collaborated with Sam Henry, releasing a music video for her single "Are You Ready to Let Go."
Hannah's Unstoppable Drive and Message to Others
Through bullying and struggles, Hannah has learned to trust herself, overcome obstacles, and turn challenges into strength. She encourages others to chase their dreams, no matter what.
“Never change yourself because of what someone else thinks. People will always try to bring you down. Instead of asking, ‘What’s wrong with me?’ recognize your worth. Invest in yourself by finding something to pour your love into. Roadblocks can be turned into something good with the right perspective”
Hannah’s journey proves that hardship can shape us into something extraordinary. Keep an eye on this local talent—she’s just getting started.
Never change yourself because of what someone else thinks. Invest in yourself, chase your dreams, and turn roadblocks into something good with the right perspective.