My passion started when I was a teenager, lessened when I was single and working long hours and re-started after a traumatic experience as one of many mental health tools to overcome the guilt and grief. Upon retirement, I joined a writing group, Women of Words (WoWs), where I was strongly encouraged to write and publish a book about my experiences based on the many journals I had written throughout the years. In late 2019, I was offered a scholarship with the Thriving Authors Academy (TAA) with author and writing coach Dallas Woodburn from California. I continued with TAA for 18 wonderful months and I learned a lot. There I found a community of writers who offered each other companionship, advice and support. A worthwhile adventure for sure and I highly recommend Dallas as a book doula. (Dallaswoodburn.com)

As a civilian employee, I gave thirty-five years of my life to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. At the end of my career, after experiencing both personal and professional traumas, I found myself diagnosed with moderate-to-severe PTSD. Through years of seeking the psychological help I needed, I finally understood that my traumas had led me to Post Traumatic Growth (PTG). PTG was transformative and brought renewed growth after adversity. I turned towards altruism, opened up to new experiences, became spiritually mature and embraced gratitude for the life I now live, saying, “Without these challenges, I may not be the person I am proud to be today.” Healing from the immense grief and guilt led me to accept that life’s adversities are indeed life lessons. My cancer diagnosis led to a healthier lifestyle. Addressing sexual harassment in the workplace brought validation and restored my confidence. Most importantly, I recognized that anxiety can be controlled by a shift to positive thinking.