I currently live in Vermont with my amazing daughters, Kaysie and Sky. I am the founder and Executive Director of a nonprofit that aims to bridge the criminal legal system and the mental health field. I’m a psychotherapist and advocate for equity and kindness. 

My twin sister, Jennifer, passed unexpectedly over 17 years ago. Even writing that out, I’ll say time is fast and slow all at once. I think of her daily, and blow her a kiss each night at the end of my prayers. 

Doing this podcast with Mandy has been a blessing and I am hopeful this podcast will allow listeners and guests the opportunity to feel seen, heard, and understood. Where there is no exact way of feeling in grief or gratitude, I do believe community and connection can help. 

We moved from VT to NC in 2018. Shortly thereafter, my son Declan started having some heart trouble and had a cardiac arrest at age 6. He was revived, and an ICD was placed. Brielle his sister ended up getting one as a precaution; however, Declan’s symptoms were much more severe.

Over the next couple of years, he went through five more SCAs—until 9/23/24, when his poor little body could not handle another one. I will never, ever forget that day. It replays in my mind, but I’ve found that sharing it with others who want to hear it helps. It helps me, and it helps them.

During those first six months, I found podcasts so helpful in my healing journey. By no means am I healed, but I try to find gratitude in little things each day, with a little help from my significant other.

Thanks so much for being here. Whether you are a listener or a guest, we want to welcome you and tell you that we are so glad you’re here.