Where do you live (city/area)?

I grew up in the Massillon area when Jackson Township still had lots of farmland. I graduated from Jackson High School and currently live in Shrine Village near Meyers Lake. I remember when there was no Belden Village Mall!

College/degree/licensure?

This has certainly been a journey, as I traveled several different roads until I finally found the right path. I attended Liberty University, then Akron Institute for Medical Assisting. After a lengthy career at North Canton Medical Center in pediatrics, I entered Akron General's Clinical Pastoral Education Program, where I studied chaplaincy for four years under Chaplain Lin Barnett.

When did you become a chaplain at Aultman Health Foundation?

I've been at Aultman Health Foundation as a chaplain for 11 years. However, I have had many different roles at Aultman for more than 20 years. I started as a patient myself, then became a volunteer on 6 South. I was known as the Candy Lady! I was then hired as a communications operator and worked in the surgery family waiting room – all while studying chaplaincy.

At what facility do you currently work?

Currently, I assist with chaplain work in Aultman’s Hospice and Palliative Care Services and in the hospital setting.

How did you decide to become a chaplain?

After my journey as a patient with a life-threatening illness, I began volunteering on Aultman's oncology floor. During that time, I felt called into ministry. It was right there on 6 South as I listened to patients’ stories that suddenly I knew this was a new direction for my life.

What do you like best about your career?

Hands down, my patients! I love the direct, lack-of-pretense contact I have in meeting my patients right where they are, just as they are. As a chaplain, I feel honored to hear each patient's story, to be present, often without words, as I provide a listening ear, a shoulder to lean on or simply be a friend for the journey.

What are some of your hobbies/interests?

I enjoy music, trips to the beach, traveling, sitting on the lanai in the evenings with my husband and let’s not forget – shopping. 

Tell us about your loved ones.

My husband, Joe, and I are newlyweds. I met him five years ago while I was walking my dogs. We married in 2016, and it's been the best life ever.
I have two wonderful sons – Joshua and Jordan. They each served our country in the United States Marine Corp. Joshua serves as a director of youth ministries, and Jordan just finished his police academy training. Nathan is my grandson who very easily wins my heart, and Sadie is my little dog who has provided so much fun and comfort when life wasn't always easy.

My parents, who taught me the art of caring for others, are both deceased.

Tell us something interesting about yourself that many of your friends may not know.

I have a dream. Years ago, I met a young man named Tim. He was diagnosed with the same illness that I had experienced. He so impacted my life as I watched him struggle that I am inspired to someday have a home for others who are just like him. I will call this home “Timothy's House.” It will be a place where others can come and find hope, unconditional love and spiritual, non-judgmental guidance.