My story began many years ago as a little girl growing up in Toronto. I was the girl who always had a smile on my face, who was there to listen with an empathetic ear, and who spent so much worrying about everyone else.

 

Through life’s inevitable challenges, I struggled, but people always told me that I was the strongest person they knew. Funny, because they didn’t see me curled up in the fetal position on my bathroom floor. That’s because I mostly hid that side of me to protect how others felt.

 

I allowed myself to be mistreated. I made other's emotions my problem. I trampled my own boundaries to keep the peace. I was abused --- physically, emotionally, and spiritually. I became someone I didn't know. I spent a lot of time pushing things down, numbing, avoiding, deflecting.

 

That was until the consequences of doing that were just too great. ​

 

As a widowed, solo mom to three incredible young men, I knew I had to make changes.

 

​My growth journey started with years of therapy to gain connection and unconditional acceptance of myself. It continued with my own self reflection of my patterns. Through professional development and skill building, I continue to grow and learn. Life will always have its challenges, but each day brings love, wonder, and beauty.

 

And I am here for it.

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