I'm a married mother of three awesome kids and a rescue dog named Sadie, a black lab mix. I grew up in Sandy Hook and currently live in Ridgefield.
I studied English Literature at Ellis College and Child Development at Post University and received my Head Teacher Certification in Early Childhood Education through the State of Connecticut in 2008.
From 2010-2012 I enjoyed working for Patch in various roles as a reporter, columnist, food critic and guest editor. I also helped launch 12 Patch sites in Fairfield County in early 2010.
During 2012-2013, I stopped working in order to serve as a volunteer to help my hometown of Sandy Hook heal after the tragic Sandy Hook School shootings on Dec. 14, 2012. I founded the Sandy Hook Arts Center for Kids (The SHACK) in Sandy Hook Center as a creative way for kids and families to heal through the power of the arts through free music and art programs. We were happy to have the Newtown Strong Therapy Dogs as regular visitors as well.
In January of 2014, Hearst Media Services honored me with the "Top 10 Most Fascinating People of 2013" award in the Greater Danbury Area for volunteer work I performed with Sandy Hook Arts Center for Kids. In June 2014, I went back to work and became a Regional Editor for eleven towns in Southwest Connecticut.
On February 4, 2015, World Cancer Day, life threw a huge curveball and I was diagnosed with "The Evil 'C' Word." During 2015 and most of 2016, I battled a "very rare, very aggressive" type of breast cancer with wit, sass, faith and lots of support from family and friends. After 4 surgeries, 16 weeks of dose dense "red devil" chemo, 30 rounds of radiation and tons of complications, I'm proud to say I'm now a survivor of Triple Negative Metaplastic Carcinoma and an advocate of self breast exams for early detection. Being diagnosed with breast cancer at the young age of 45 with no cancer in my family prompted me to start a #MyLeftBoob selfie campaign to raise awareness for early detection.
Read my story here:
http://patch.com/connecticut/bethel/breast-cancer-awareness-behind-pink-ribbons-personal-survival-story-0
In my free time I enjoy hiking, reading biographies, David Sedaris or Kurt Vonnegut books, singing and playing bass guitar in a cover band with my rockin' hubby of 22 years, who is the drummer.
Take a look at some of the most unusual police reports from around Monroe and Fairfield County on Patch.
Take a look at some of the most unusual police reports from around Newtown and Fairfield County on Patch.
Take a look at some of the most unusual police reports from around Weston and Fairfield County on Patch.
Take a look at some of the most unusual police reports from around Wilton and Fairfield County on Patch.
Take a look at some of the most unusual police reports from around Ridgefield and Fairfield County on Patch.
Take a look at some of the most unusual police reports from around Danbury and Fairfield County on Patch.
Take a look at some of the most unusual police reports from around Brookfield and Fairfield County on Patch.
Take a look at some of the most unusual police reports from around Bethel and Fairfield County on Patch.
Check out the most up-to-date guide to fireworks celebrations throughout the state of Connecticut.
State Police are reminding drivers to obey all laws this July 4th weekend 2016. Several sobriety checkpoints are planned.
As of July 1, 2016 there are a number of new laws taking effect in Connecticut. Find out which ones will have an impact on you.
The 4th of July holiday is upon us and many will celebrate with parades, fireworks and travel. Find all your need-to-know info on Patch!
Blue Cheese Burgers, Succulent Ribs and Hot Rodsters— is your mouth watering yet? Check out these delicious recipes for your celebration.
Blue Cheese Burgers, Succulent Ribs and Hot Rodsters— is your mouth watering yet? Check out these delicious recipes for your celebration.
AAA expects most U.S. drivers will pay the lowest Independence Day gas prices since 2005. Find out where the lowest prices are in your area.
AAA expects most U.S. drivers will pay the lowest Independence Day gas prices since 2005. Find out where the lowest prices are in your area.
AAA expects most U.S. drivers will pay the lowest Independence Day gas prices since 2005. Find out where the lowest prices are in your area.
AAA expects most U.S. drivers will pay the lowest Independence Day gas prices since 2005. Find out where the lowest prices are in your area.
AAA expects most U.S. drivers will pay the lowest Independence Day gas prices since 2005. Find out where the lowest prices are in your area.
AAA expects most U.S. drivers will pay the lowest Independence Day gas prices since 2005. Find out where the lowest prices are in your area.