I grew up in Cherry Hill, NJ, with my parents and two older brothers. I moved to Fairfield County about 20 years ago, and I’ve been a Norwalk resident for the past 15 years. 

 

I’m a single mother, a daughter, and a sister. I am also a woman in recovery from both mental health and addiction. I say this in order to be the first person to tell you.  

 

By trait, I’m a seasoned recovery coach with a passion for helping others. I worked with the Community Care Team at Norwalk Hospital where we met with over 30 community and municipal providers on a weekly basis to help at-risk individuals achieve wellness in all social determinants. I also volunteer at the Connecticut Community for Addiction Recovery (CCAR). But, that's only part of my story. 

 

I am also no stranger to strong advocacy efforts when it comes to legislation. I am a member of my local prevention council, The Norwalk Partnership, as well as the alcohol and marijuana subcommittees. I am part of the state’s Task Force to Study Peer Services, to which I was appointed last year by Senator Duff. I am part of the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services' (DMHAS) Peer Certification Advisory Committee.  And, I also belong to the PTA and Equity Committee at my daughter’s middle school in Norwalk. I am genuinely embedded in my community. 

 

In short, I’m a community-minded leader who, through honesty, open-mindedness, and selflessness, has consistently demonstrated a passion for helping others.