Occupation: I’m a PartyLite representative. I sell candles at home shows. I’m a portrait and nature photographer, and I am also a real estate photographer. I’m not working right now, but I am also a graphic designer. And, I’m a mom.

Family: My husband, Kirk, and I have been married for 20 years this January. We have two boys. Chris is 16 and Austin is 13 years old.

Pets: We have two dogs, Zaboo and Kiah. They are Yorkshire terriers. Zaboo is 9 years old, and Kiah is 8 years old.

How long have you lived in Newtown? We have lived here for 14 years, moving from Stamford.

What do you like to do in your free time? I am a survivorship coordinator for Relay For Life. I’m also a member of the Order of Malta, a religious organization that helps the poor and sick, so I do lots of volunteer service. I like to read, and I do a few different crafts. Austin is on the youth football team, so I do a lot of photography of that.

Do you have a favorite author? I like Wayne Dyer. He writes the New Age self-help books. I bring more happiness into my life and feel more positive through his books.

Do you have a favorite travel destination? I’ve traveled to a lot of tropical destinations with trips I’ve earned through PartyLite. For vacations with my family, though, we like Maine and New Hampshire.

What is the best thing about Newtown? It’s a big town with a small town feeling. Our neighborhood is fantastic. It’s a great community. When I had cancer, I was amazed at the support. I don’t know if I could have gotten through it without my neighbors and friends.

If you could spend a day with anyone, whom would you choose? My friends. You never have enough time with your friends.

Do you have a personal philosophy? Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Try to live happily.

What do you most cherish? My kids. They’re the best things I’ve done in my life. And that I’ve survived cancer and am here to witness to others that you can survive, and give hope.