I grew up in a small town in the mid-west. I was raised to believe that family was important, and to be proud of who you are. My dad was Polish, and I grew up hearing my fair share of Polish jokes. My grandmother, from an early age, instilled in my brothers and I to be proud of our Polish roots and where we came from. The jokes were hard on me as a kid, but as I grew older my appreciation for my culture grew, along with my pierogi making skills.

My dad passed away unexpectedly in 2022, he was my hero, and one of the best fathers a girl could ever ask for. He and my mom were just short of celebrating 70 years of marriage. I learned a lot from those two, and his smile will forever be in my heart.

I understand what it’s like to be an NPE, to one day know who you are and the next not know who the person in the mirror is. I know the feeling of walking around feeling like half of you is missing. The guy that has always been your hero is now someone you no longer share a drop of blood with. I know what it’s like to cry for all the things, and people you missed and will never have a chance to know. I know what it’s like to have time erased that you can never get back.

I also know that it can get better. I know what it’s like to see your eyes in a new sibling, I know what it’s like to see hands that match yours, I know what it’s like to know why you have a crooked smile. The hurt may not ever go away completely, but I can help you heal. There is a new road to navigate, and it’s probably going to be a rocky road.  I have experience when the story doesn’t work out the way you hope, and you’re left with more pain. I’ll help you learn how to navigate the rough spots. You aren’t alone, the world wanted you in it for a reason, you deserve your truth, and your voice should be heard. I’ll listen and help you find your voice.

My background is in psychology, I have my bachelors from the Arizona State University. I am certified from the Global Trauma Institute as a trauma care practitioner. I have also received an advanced certification as an NPE trauma recovery coach. Even though I’m no longer Polish I continue to make my pierogi’s every year, and continue to learn about the new me everyday.