Born and raised in the suburbs of New Jersey, I built a career in law enforcement before retiring toTopsail Island, North Carolina. Alongside my work, I devoted my free time to animal advocacy, alwaysbelieving one person can make a difference.After retirement, I filled my days with volunteer work—rescuing birds, visiting facilities with my pet therapy dog,and training my rescue dog.Sadly, my husband, Dave, was diagnosed with a rare, aggressive cancer.  I became his full-time caregiver and later wrote my first book, Something More Than Love: When YourHusband Dies and Takes Half Your Heart With Him. Through writing and speaking, I encourage openconversations about grief, death, and end-of-life, believing these are essential parts of healing.I have a stronger belief than ever that volunteerism is the path to healing, purpose, and impact.I can often be found on the beaches of Topsail Island or traveling the country in my camper with mydog.