Canton, Ohio
First Term – 2 years to expire in 2008
An Ohio native all my life, I graduated from Fariport Harding High and was active in sports and cheerleading. I won the VFW Voice of Democracy regional award and I am in Who’s Who of American High School Students. I was runner up to Miss Ohio Teen. I became disabled 14 years ago, after an auto accident. I developed Arachnoiditis (a web type scar tissue that puts pressure on my spinal cord). A morphine pump has been implanted for my constant pain.
Using service dogs, braces, and a power wheelchair have enabled me to live independently. I designed a website about my first service dog that American Online featured several times, and I perform demonstrations to groups internationally. I have received numerous awards for my volunteerism, and a scholarship from the International Association of Assistance Dog Partnerships.
I have served in different chairmanships for the Junior League, Canton Women’s Club, and Women’s Board of Aultman Hospital (among other groups). I am on the Board of Directors for Canines Helping Independent People. Professionally, I have modeled and have been an on-air hostess for infommercials; developed my own business; and have held my Ohio real estate and two types of Ohio insurance licenses. I am listed in the original Who’s Who in America for 2007-2008. I am Ms. Wheelchair Ohio for 2007 – 2008 and Miss Ability USA for 2008. I received the Key to the city of Canton for my work with people with disabilities and I am an accomplished public speaker. I am single and live with my current service dog Shadow. I enjoy animals, nature, reading, and learning.