Besides a few demographics, I am really no different than anyone else reading this. I am a mom and a wife. By far the two roles that I find the hardest but most gratifying. 

As I grow into my life, I feel the need for authenticity and a calling to help others. Speaking and coaching are my passions. I believe that we are meant to survive our stories. I heard that in a movie a while back and it just struck a nerve with me. Soon after my son died, I felt a strong urge to try to help others navigate having a child that is disabled, terminal or has died. I ruminated about it for years and then, shit really hit the fan. In the context of the demise of an abusive marriage, my life fell apart. (Death certainly brings out the best and the worst in people) So the thought of helping others fell by the wayside. 10 years later, living a really
awesome life and losing another child, I knew that I was MEANT to survive my stories. I am meant to at least try to give people hope and understand that just because these awful events happen, they do not have to define us.

There is so much happiness in the world if we allow ourselves the space to create it. None of us are exempt from the experience of loss. It is perhaps the only thing that that we all, as humans, have in common. My philosophy is that we might as well make peace with it. Even marinate in it for a while. And then take steps to mobilize and work towards experiencing the joy that surrounds us. We have to make space for it. It is not easy, but it is possible. I promise.

So, my joy personally is found in the times when I am with my one remaining child. Doesn’t matter what we are doing, I am at peace. I am just so thankful for her. She’s been dealt a pretty shitty hand so far in life and is so smart and gracious.

And spending time with my smart, thoughtful, strong husband. And my beautiful friends.

I find joy when I am on my motorcycle and doing yoga. Not at the same time. Dancing (belly and bhangra). Walking in the woods with my pups. Being near water. Star and moon gazing. Creating art.

I hope my journey helps someone who is hurting or stuck and gives hope and light where it seems there is none.