When I was 22 years old, I was diagnosed with melanoma cancer. The doctors told me I would not live to see my 23rd birthday. But I lived through many birthdays since then. To me this early “wake up call” meant there must be a purpose for why I lived. I decided to follow my passion to be a part of something bigger than myself serving humanity. Starting with the March of Dimes, I joined the fight against birth defects and then for 30 years I found my life’s purpose serving several other non profits as a development officer. There were other challenges to face outside of my professional life. With a positive attitude, a strong faith and a sense of humor, I lived through many health scares, personal heartaches and also joyful times. When my husband died in 2023, I started writing the stories of my life for my family and friends. Then I recorded them on audio files. Now, I believe that the gift of my life’s experiences could be a light to shine on the world during these dark times. If my stories can inspire just one person, I will accomplish my goal.