Born with Cerebral Palsy, she turned lifelong challenges into purpose—using persistence, creativity, and faith to inspire others through her writing.
Many people see me as severely disabled. I do not see myself that way. Yes, I have had Cerebral Palsy since birth. All four of my limbs are affected, my speech can sometimes be difficult to understand, and my electric wheelchair is my constant companion. Even so, I knew from a young age that my life had purpose.
When I was six years old, I wrote my first short story, and something clicked inside me. From that moment on, I felt a deep desire to be a writer. In high school, junior college, and at California State University of Northridge (CSUN), I wrote several articles for local newspapers about living with a disability. As life moved forward, that passion was pushed deeper and deeper and did not resurface until I was sixty. It took fifty-four years for me to realize I needed to listen to what my heart and instincts were telling me. Now, as I write, a sense of peace fills my entire being. I have found my purpose in life. Despite many challenges, I have accomplished much over the years.
I was born in Ventura, California, and spent half of my childhood on my grandfather’s ranch. It was there that I learned the importance of persistence. Combining hard work with persistence helped me achieve many of my goals.
For my first three years at the university, I majored in Accounting. Although I did well academically, my inner self was struggling. I eventually changed my major to Art, where I discovered my love for creativity through writing and painting. I have since sold several of my paintings.
I earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in 2D Art from CSUN. I married, raised a beautiful daughter, and am now blessed with three wonderful grandchildren. I am also the second disabled individual sanctioned by the United States Bowling Congress to bowl in an able-bodied league—an achievement that brings me great joy. Serving as Treasurer of my local Toastmasters chapter for five years and as President for one year greatly strengthened my confidence.
I have written two children’s books, Jasper Saves the Day, Part 1 and Jasper Becomes Famous, Part 2. My goal was to share wisdom and determination with disabled children and to show them that they, too, can accomplish many things through hard work and the right attitude.
Since then, I have written two additional books. Miracles of Life or Life of Miracles shares the miracles I have experienced in my own life. I feel a responsibility to tell these stories in hopes that readers may reflect on their own lives and recognize the miracles they may have overlooked. My most recent book, Bible Speaks, is written to simplify the language and meaning of the Bible so it is easier to understand.
I hope you enjoy my books. If you have any feedback or comments, I would truly love to hear from you.
