Cheryl possesses a smile that lights up a room. It’s an undeniable blend of mischief, optimism and a great sense of humor. She knows her share of pain and loss and yet she’s somehow figured out the key to maintaining a consistently positive mental attitude, with only the occasional lapses into madness.

A breast cancer survivor, Cheryl is the embodiment of the healing powers of friendship. The Brownie slogan “make new friends but keep the old, one is silver and the other gold” truly resonates with her. Friendships throughout Cheryl’s childhood as well as her high school and college years became an influential and important part of her world. Regardless of the personal and professional paths Cheryl pursued, her friends consistently remained vital to her sense of well-being.

Ups and Downs of Family Life

Cheryl as a teenager with family

Cheryl’s parents, Annette and Halle, met when they were youngsters and married when they were barely out of their teens. Cheryl was the oldest of their three children.

In high school, Cheryl’s father serendipitously bought a second-run movie theater where she and one of her brothers worked. It seemed like there was always some interesting new adventure going on in her family. Consequently, Cheryl had the unique opportunity of being exposed to a wide variety of budding businesses at a young age. Sadly for Cheryl and her siblings, her parents divorced after her younger brother left for college. Her father remarried but died soon after, suddenly at the age of 51, forever altering their worlds.

After graduating with honors from Wheaton College (Norton, MA), Cheryl married young and like her mother gave birth to three children. Along the way she freelanced for some of the local newspapers and volunteered in her children’s schools and at a variety of charitable organizations.

After 16 years, Cheryl’s marriage ended in divorce. She shared, “It is difficult to say exactly what happened, but regardless, we both made an effort to keep our private business from disrupting the family and especially our children.” Today they have a unique situation where, even though her former husband remarried, they still celebrate milestones and birthdays together. They share custody of their children and never got caught in a tug-of-war or any of the nastiness that often emerges in the divorce process.

Cheryl and Alan, New Year's Eve 2008, a week before diagnosis

Cheryl has had many chapters in her life – from a career woman in Manhattan to married suburban homemaker to divorced freelance writer, editor and publicist. She is devoted to her children, now 24, 21 and 16, her Portuguese Water Dog, Pepper, and her partner, Alan. Like many women juggling multiple roles, Cheryl put herself and her health last on the “to do” list.

Never in her wildest dreams did Cheryl think that she could compromise her health to such an extent that she would one day end up fighting for her life!

A Cancer Diagnosis and Journey to Wellness

In 2006 Cheryl had a mammogram at the Imaging Center in Boston. The radiologist spotted something in her right breast, did an ultrasound and then tried to aspirate it. Nothing came out. Cheryl said that, “If I had known then what I know now, I would have recognized that this was not a cyst, but a solid mass and most likely a tumor that needed to be biopsied immediately.” The radiologist  told her “to follow-up with her doctor.” Cheryl’s did not feel alarmed about getting to her doctor and her life felt chaotic at the time. In hindsight, Cheryl knows she needed to be more proactive and in charge of her own health care.

Late in 2006 she got a letter saying that the facility at One Brookline Place closed and she needed to collect the copies of her mammogram films or they would be put into storage. Cheryl neglected to pick up her films. Next Cheryl heard from her ob-gyn that he was leaving his practice and moving to California. In 2007, Cheryl was now without a gynecologist and any record of her history.

Finally in September 2007 she found a new doctor, and after 18 months, had her long overdue mammogram. She did not stay for the radiologist to read her film. About a week later she was asked to return for another round of films and to bring her last set of films with her. Cheryl now made her trek to the Boston Medical Center.

Spring 2008, Cheryl while undergoing treatment

By the time the cancer was diagnosed it had spread outside of the ducts and into her lymph nodes, local advanced (or Stage IIIb). Her surgeon feared that the cancer may have spread to an inoperable lymph node, but as Cheryl put it, “Only by the grace of God and sheer luck did I dodge that bullet. I never dreamed that I would be grateful to have  a Stage 3 breast cancer diagnosis, but the reality is that once the cancer spreads, the road to wellness is that much longer and tougher!”

She is extremely fortunate that the cancer did not metastasize to other parts of her body. Cheryl paid a price for her lax approach to her health care. She endured nearly a year of grueling treatment and surgeries to reach a stage where there was “no evidence of cancer.”

Cheryl continues to be on a medication regimen that produces a wide range of side effects and in January 2010, she underwent a bilaterial DIEP flap reconstructive surgery.  She tries very hard not to let herself worry about recurrence, although the thought persists in the back of her mind. Cheryl remains committed to practicing her affirmations and self-hypnosis exercises on a daily basis.

Friends Helped Cheryl’s Healing Process

Throughout her cancer experience and beyond, Cheryl has leaned on her circle of wonderful, supportive, devoted friends. “I like to think that I am a very good friend to have and that I give a great deal to those I care about. So when I was diagnosed with cancer in January 2008, you might say it was karma that all of that giving was returned to me in spades.”

At first it was difficult for Cheryl to be the recipient and not the giver, but as she continued on her difficult journey she learned one of the most important lessons about healing. “You have to put yourself at the top of the list during this critical time. Everyone needs to feel needed and I think it was helpful to people who were closest to me to be able to ‘do’ something and not feel so helpless.” Cheryl feels fortunate that she is the type of person able to reach out and ask for help when she needs it. “I think it’s because I don’t feel as though I’m imposing – I feel as though I’m offering an opportunity to help me and then I will return the favor. It’s a give-and-take, which most friendships are.”

Cheryl and friends, July 2008 before surgery

Everyone who knows Cheryl has heard her say, “No one survives cancer (or any illness or trauma) alone. It is a team effort – you need the support of family and friends. You need to gather a good medical team, one that you trust and feel comfortable and confident in. You need to have faith, hope and trust in people whom you have never even met.”

One of Cheryl’s most cherished memories is after she came home from her mastectomy; she noticed her front yard looked rather neglected. She loves gardening and had begun a project in her front yard before her surgery. A week after her return home, a group of her friends came over unsolicited and completed the job.  “Every time I stood up to do something they all shouted, ‘Sit down, Cheryl!’” She has no doubt in her mind that part of the reason she had such a great outcome from her cancer diagnosis was due to the love and care she received from so many loving friends.

Cheryl tries to express her gratitude whenever possible. “Whenever I hear of someone being diagnosed with breast cancer now, I reach out and help them understand and get through this difficult time. Before this disease touched me, I never knew what to say or do. Now I feel like I can make a significant difference in the lives of others. It feels like it has become part of my mission in life.” Cheryl occasionally experiences some dark days, but she does what she can to maintain a positive outlook and the belief that she will survive and flourish.

Healing Herself and Making a Difference

Cheryl with Maxine and Janet, 2007

Now she is trying to get to year five when she jumps into a much better statistical survival pool. For now, Cheryl is very proud of her role as a breast cancer survivor and advocate for good health for women. “That is one reason why I have stayed very involved at the Virginia Thurston Healing Garden, which is an extraordinary place for women undergoing cancer treatment. Besides serving on a committee for a fundraiser in 2009, I took part in their annual walk to raise money last October. I raised the most funds as a single walker. This year I hope to put together a team to walk there, and at the Making Strides event on the Esplanade.”

Cheryl currently gives inspirational talks at special events for AstraZeneca, including the 2009 Making Strides Against Breast Cancer.  “It was one of the thrills of my life the first time I stood before 4,000 people and told my story.” She also participated in two science days for AstraZeneca, once with her oncologist, and once with one of her heroes in the breast cancer wars, Jacqueline Pimentel. Jacqueline lost her battle with cancer but Cheryl learned a great deal from her about maintaining a loving spirit and never succumbing to the disease. “Her expression NGUNGI! never give up, never give in, has been a rallying cry for many of us survivors.”

Cheryl with close friends Melanie and Linda

Friends and family encouraged Cheryl to endure her cancer fight, and their relentless support gives her the strength to carry on. “So if anyone asks me, do I think friendship is a key component to healing? The answer is unequivocally, yes!”

Ralph Waldo Emerson said, “’To have a friend you have to be a friend.” That seems to be Cheryl’s motto for life.

Ten years ago if anyone had asked Nancy Bergstein what her world would be like once both of her daughters had left for college, she probably could not have imagined the satisfying, vibrant and full life she leads today. Between working, volunteering, caring for her elderly mother and nurturing her daughters and husband, Nancy has also found a way to turn challenges into successes and incorporate her artistic interests into her life.

The past couple of years have been a watershed time for Nancy’s family – her children went off to college, her mother moved into her home, her husband’s parents were ailing and job securities changed. Nancy has graciously faced what many of her peers are dealing with: being the sandwich generation.

Children making fruit kabobs in an It's Cooking! class

In addition, Nancy runs her own businesses – one teaching children theatre, cooking and photography and another designing “life story books.” Her “life story books” are another source of inspiration and an outlet for Nancy’s creativity. By helping others to synthesize their lives and photographs, Nancy garners a great feeling of accomplishment by creating books that tell their life stories. If all of that were not fulfilling enough, Nancy continues to direct many theatrical productions in the Sudbury and Wayland communities.

Nancy’s Parents Inspire Her Love of the Arts

Nancy with her parents and brother

Nancy’s parents Irene and Leon were very much in love, but were separated two days after they married because of wartime demands. Irene moved back into her parent’s home, longing to be with Leon and be the newlywed she was supposed to be. She spent two years waiting for her husband’s return. Finally he was back, they settled down outside of Boston and shortly thereafter Irene gave birth to Robert, then Nancy.

Nancy’s parents remained deeply in love throughout their years together. They shared a passion for music and theater. Irene was a fabulous artist and created a treasure trove of painted objects, a talent Nancy would also inherit. She says her “father’s lighthearted spirit made any room sparkle. He always had a smile on his face and a song in his heart. Dad was the inspiration behind my love of music and mom inspired my love of theater and art.” Nancy wasn’t encouraged to choose any of them professionally, nonetheless she found ways throughout the years to “bring joy to myself through creativity.”

Although Nancy received her bachelor’s degree in teaching and then her Masters degree in Health Education and Nutrition, her heart was always tugged in the direction of the arts. After several years of teaching in Duxbury, feeling isolated, Nancy left her job to pursue work in Boston. Taking that risk would prove to be one of life’s turning points for it was there that Nancy met her husband, Alan, who reminded her a lot of her father. After marrying and giving birth to two girls 17 months apart, Nancy wanted to restructure her priorities.

A Growing Family and Creative Pursuits

Nancy and her family

Like many parents, Nancy hoped her girls would have all she herself had wished for growing up and more. She left her job in Boston to become a stay-at-home mom so she could devote herself to raising Laura and Julie. “I felt that helping my children find their way in life was one of the most important jobs I could do. I wanted to help them to know themselves well, to take pleasure in their relationships with friends and family, and very importantly, to be grounded so they could get through life’s ups and downs.” Nancy also encouraged her daughters to cultivate their passions while thinking realistically about their futures and what paths could be fulfilling for them.

Anything Goes poster, Curtis Middle School

“During that time, I stayed very involved in our schools and community. Being a teacher allows one to inspire and hopefully make a difference in a child’s future,” Nancy says. Nancy was eventually hired as the Musical Theatre Director of Sudbury’s middle school. She oversaw several successful productions, including Bye Bye Birdie, Guys and Dolls, and Anything Goes. Parents in the community still stop her to talk about the rewards that both the students and community reaped from those experiences.

Program cover from Temple Shir Tikva production

Nancy helmed several productions at her local synagogue as well. During the ten years that she directed shows, the cast, crew and number of musicians under her direction grew, as did the audience size. Nancy’s theatrical endeavors earned her a glowing reputation and brought the temple and community to life. She inspired people to become involved, excited, develop new friendships and to have fun. “I was fortunate in both venues to develop and share in the community spirit, to collaborate with talented, wonderful people, with whom to this day I share friendships. I couldn’t have done those shows without them.”

Becoming a Caregiver

Life became more challenging as the years went on. Nancy suddenly found herself caring for her ailing mother, who moved into her family’s home and has been there for more than two years. “Even though I wasn’t close with my mother when I was younger, taking into account all the factors, living with us seemed the appropriate choice at the time.” Nancy felt it would be better for her mother to be with her family at the end of her life than alone in a facility. Little did Nancy know that this decision would be another major turning point in her life. During this time her children left for college, her husband was out of work and then later began working out of state, and they lost both of his parents within several weeks of each other.

Nancy rose to the occasion by taking care of her mother whose health was deteriorating. She mourned the loss of Alan’s parents, adjusted to their children being away and continued to build and create her own businesses. She juggled all of this without bitterness or self-pity. Her resolve and resilience made it all seem easy and she served as a role model for her daughters and her friends. Nancy concentrated on positive things, grateful to have her beautiful family, wonderful friends and good health.

Nancy with her daughters and mother

Nancy really had no idea what it would be like being an elderly person’s primary caregiver or how long she would be in that position. Although Nancy admits the past couple of years have been stressful, “like most difficult events in life, there have been many valuable lessons to learn. I certainly hadn’t envisioned that at 60-years-old I’d be living at home quietly with my husband and children away often, and me with my 90-year-old mother and a dog!

“Life is ten percent what happens to us and 90 percent how we handle it. Old age can be hard for some people. Watching it first hand on a daily basis has commanded more of me than I probably knew I could handle: the end of life psychology, defining different ailments, learning about medicines, talks of death and personal wishes, managing both the at-home and outside care, how insurances work, how various facilities work (i.e. hospice, rehab, nursing homes and hospitals) and the good and not-so-good doctors. I’ve learned about medical errors, patient rights, shopping for essentials, administering medications, some unpleasant cleaning tasks and educating my family to all of this, and on and on and on. In the past six months alone we’ve journeyed to the hospital five times, hospice twice, rehab twice and have been in and out of our home as well. As her caregiver, I felt sad, too, for all she’s been through and is still going through. I had to learn, however, to rise above caring for my mother and maintain my own happiness, probably one of the hardest but most important lessons a caregiver has to learn,” Nancy explains. She is quick to say that she knows she is not alone in facing these challenges, as many of her peers are in the same situation.

Caring for Herself While Caring for Others

Nancy acknowledges that most people do not know what it is like to be a daily caregiver. “I couldn’t possibly explain the roller coaster ride I’ve been on. Learning to support caregivers of the world is of the utmost importance because they are in a very draining situation, with many emotions running wild. Added to their job description, if it is a child/parent relationship, there can be many past, complicated emotions brought to the surface while dealing with current ones, such as anger, frustration, sadness and guilt.” In addition to processing all of the unforeseen emotions that have come along with caring for her mother, Nancy has become much more aware of the plight of the elderly in America. She feels there is much work and “new thinking our country needs to do regarding the elderly who are unfortunate enough to have lengthy, uncomfortable endings.”

Photography by Nancy Bergstein

By staying connected to friends and family, pursuing her own creative projects like photography and watching her own health, Nancy has been able to maintain a sense of balance throughout this challenging time. She also feels grateful just for the ‘extra’ time she has had with her mother. “Time,” she says, “that we might not have had otherwise to be at peace with each other. Perhaps having difficult times helped me to see the positives more clearly. I’ve gained a new kind of inner strength including how to be more giving, understanding, patient and selfless. I’m a bit mellower being humbled by seeing what life can bring. I have a new empathy for the elderly and for what their lives may be like. I know that having gotten this far, I will continue to face challenges head on.”

By realizing that she’s not alone in caring for two generations – older and younger – Nancy hopes that others will feel less alone as well. “No one is immune to hardships and the “busy-ness” of life. My story isn’t unusual but if one person feels more supported by reading it, I will feel good sharing some of the story of our family’s journey.”

If Nancy has learned anything it’s that “most things that happen during the day are small stuff not to be sweated. The bigger things that cause much personal pain require much inner strength to push through them and that capability lies within us. Our personal happiness comes from our inner selves and the people (and dogs!) we surround ourselves with.”

Her philosophy for life going forward is to try to live in the spirit of ‘Yes!’

As a “mompreneur” Kim DeYoung brilliantly blends motherhood with entrepreneurship and teaches others how to do it as well as a business coach. Kim is indeed the original “Metromom,” which is the company she created providing a unique place for moms to connect, learn and build their businesses.

Dr. Randy Kamen Gredinger and Kim DeYoung

Kim and I met by chance at a tea party in Manhattan. We engaged in each other’s stories and quickly found a connection over the passion we share for our families and the work that we do. Kim immediately struck me as a compassionate, smart and fierce warrior, determined to find the balance that nurtures her family, her soulful home-based business and the many women she serves.

Motherhood and establishing her own business

Living in Connecticut with her three children and husband, Kim knows what it means to juggle her family, home, business, workouts, friendships and love of decorating. Her life is full, rich and sometimes off kilter. Good mentors and a capacity for great insight provide Kim the knowledge of how to regain her sense of balance.

Kim and family

With the birth of her first child, Kim began to make the shift from corporate to entrepreneurial life. She decided early on that she would not sacrifice her family to succeed. Instead, Kim designed a work/life balance on her own terms and started a company that helps other women do the same.

Kim’s mission is helping women to think smarter, plan better and live richer. “I want women to be empowered to do what they want to do, with whatever provides them joy, income and flexibility. I also believe it’s critical to prepare the next generation to do the same. I want to teach kids to dream big AND make it happen—have a business idea, envision it fully, and see it through completion.”

When Kim was in the throes of growing her Metromom business, her husband was laid off. The stress of building her business and raising her family without the cushion from her husband’s income became a major challenge. With the support of friends, family, colleagues and mentors, Kim made it through intact. She says the challenge of this difficult time has made her stronger, more compassionate for the women she serves and more realistic about her relationship with money.

Kim and her husband

Kim also founded a company called “Get it Done University.” This business is dedicated to teaching entrepreneurial women specific tools and strategies to help them get their ideas out of their heads and into the marketplace. They learn how to make more money, serve more people and make the difference they know they can make.

The role of “teacher” is a powerful and meaningful one to Kim. She considers it an honor to finally fully embrace herself as the “teacher.”

“Integrity and connecting with others are my core values. I always need to be coming from those places to feel good about myself,” Kim shares.

Persevering with the development of her businesses – even when in debt and seriously discouraged by others – Kim believed in herself and stayed the course. She says that one of the greatest challenges in her life has been “being open to the evolving nature of my business. Not getting upset when things ‘fail.’”

Kim believes that the difficult or “dark” side of challenges leads to opportunities. Getting support from others while immersed in difficult times is one of the keys to moving forward. It is always a choice to either remain in the “dark” or to take positive action and find the “light” according to Kim. Her vision is teaching others what she is learning along her own life journey, balancing love, work and fun.

Metromom group with Kim DeYoung

Recently Kim won the Connecticut SBA’s Women in Business Champion of the Year. She says “I think back over the various ‘obstacles’ that could have prevented me from getting this award, such as completing a very comprehensive application process. I realize that at each moment I had a choice to make. Was I going to show up or not? Was I going to do it or was I going to make an excuse? This experience was a huge wake-up call for me and a reminder to show up fully and not make excuses. You just never know where the small moments will lead.”

Kim positioned herself in recent years as a local and national media expert. She blogs regularly both in print and on video and collaborates with other experts in the entrepreneurial world.

How can women learn to be better entrepreneurs?

Kim explained that, “being an entrepreneur means acknowledging that you are in business for yourself. You are the CEO of your own company. It requires a mindset shift to step into that place.

“The doing requires you to determine your priorities for your business, to get clear on how to do what you need to do, to set time aside to do it, and to be open to the evolutionary process of what works and what doesn’t so that you can course-correct.”

She asks her clients, “What are you tolerating in your business or life that you don’t want to tolerate? That is where the opportunity lies. That is where the shift needs to occur. I’m not in business just to make money. Most importantly, I need to feel like I am adding value to others and having a good time. That’s when I feel enlivened and my juices are flowing.”

Kim’s authenticity comes through in her way of teaching, coaching and all of her conversations. She teaches her clients that their marketing needs to be aligned with their core values. This is how being an entrepreneur differs from big business.

In her quintessential program, The Get it Done Challenge, Kim encourages women to “Grow their businesses one project at a time.” She provides them with the tools to make sure that happens.

Kim’s favorite quote is taken from Notes from the Universe (Tut.com):

Kim and friends on Martha's Vineyard

“The real reason so many have trouble with the baby steps – doing all they can, with what they’ve got, from where they are, no matter how humble or seemingly futile – is because they haven’t yet grasped that the baby steps trigger unseen forces that throw wide the floodgates of unstoppable momentum, infinite abundance, and eternal life.”

Creative writer and book coach, Lisa Tener, quotes Brenda Ueland, “I learned that you should feel when writing, not like Lord Byron on a mountain top, but like a child stringing beads in kindergarten – happy, absorbed and quietly putting one bead on after another.” These words capture Lisa’s keenness for her craft and modesty about her accomplishments. Her creative mind contemplates writing projects and ideas for interesting angles and perspectives for her book-coaching clients.

We first met at the Harvard Writing and Publishing Course, where Lisa was leading a workshop on developing a more compelling writing style. She arrived with her newborn baby in one arm and her papers in the other. A minute before the session began her mother-in-law scooped up her beautiful boy and Lisa began her talk without missing a beat. Her workshop drew me into the world of writing creative non-fiction. I knew when I began my blog, www.DrRKG.com that Lisa was sure to be one of my inspiring women.

A Sheltered Childhood Leads to a Fertile Imagination

Lisa Tener as a baby with her parents

Lisa grew up in Queens, New York with her parents, siblings and grandmother. Her father was an English teacher and her mother a watercolor artist. Lisa, the oldest of three, grew up in a protective environment and was not encouraged far from venture far from home.

As a child Lisa’s imagination blossomed. She immersed herself in writing poetry and stories. As she grew up Lisa often imagined herself becoming an author. She wrote down her made up stories that she later learned was called fiction.

“My happiest memories are of nature and of being creative: writing poems, making up songs, putting on plays with my siblings, putting on puppet shows for the summer neighborhood in New Brunswick, Canada. We got written up in the Moncton Times and filled a large barn with audience members. Our summer place was on huge beach where the tides are extremely low and high, so at low tide you can walk out unusually far across the beach–between the seaweed covered rocks and the tide pools. It looked like another planet. I often imagined filming a science fiction movie on that beach.

Lisa Tener as a teenager with family

“I wrote poetry there. I remember one night waking up at four in the morning and writing and writing, watching the sun rise over the Fundy bay and writing poems about the sunrise and about writing poetry. That was the closest I ever got to god in my childhood.”

When Lisa was in third grade her grandmother gave her a diary. Her grandmother explained that she could write about whatever flowers she saw blooming on her way to school. Her April birthday gave way to descriptions and stories about crocuses. Then her fourth grade diary took her down the path of writing about her friends and the dramas of her childhood. Lisa noted that her diaries invariably had a self-improvement quality to them. Each year she wrote New Year’s resolutions with promises to stop biting her nails and losing her temper.

Eventually her diary became more of a journal. She replaced the locked sixth grade diary with spiral bound notebooks and single entries stretched on for pages. With more pages, she became more creative. She began to write poetry again and doodle. As Lisa grew older her journal entries became more interwoven with the beginnings of stories, most of which went unfinished.

Journaling Practice Leads to Lisa’s First Published Book

Lisa’s first solo adventure was coming to Boston to attend Massachusetts Institute of Technology for her bachelors and masters degrees. Upon graduation she worked as a nonprofit executive for several years, until she decided to ask the board of directors for a job share so that she could write her first book. Much to Lisa’s amazement they agreed to her request. After that, they agreed to permit her two more years of job sharing.

Lisa with husband and sons

Lisa married a man from a different cultural and religious background and found that they complemented each other well. After they began their family together, Lisa stayed at home with her baby, continued to write and slowly grew her home-based business.

“My first published book grew out of one of these spiral notebook notations. I used the polarity therapy I’d learned to explore and created these exercises I later termed anger-obics. The book, The Ultimate Guide to Transforming Anger, took shape when I teamed up with my co-authors, Peaco Todd and Jane Middelton-Moz, but the journaling really got me started.”

On a more personal note Lisa faced the diagnosis of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. An unexpected positive result of this challenge opened Lisa up to the world of spirituality and alternative methods of healing. Polarity therapy gradually helped her to heal. It is no surprise that this method of healing gave Lisa the idea for her first book.

Channeling Creativity While Promoting Her Career
As A Book Writing Coach

Lisa is married with two sons, one in pre-school and another in elementary school. She has a thriving business as a book writing coach. These days she is journaling less because of the demands of her everyday life. But even when she’s on a business call with clients she finds herself doodling. Lisa says, “I think the doodling integrates my creative and analytical sides and allows me to bring both to the client’s work.” Perhaps it is her way of keeping her creative juices flowing or as she explained, “The muse within finds a way to express itself – and not for sharing, not for understanding myself, not for creating something out of it – just for the sake of expression. Pure, unselfconscious life force streaming from my pen, for no other reason than just being creative.”

Book coaching class

In Lisa’s work as a book writing coach, she inspires others to write their books and get them published. She also teaches private book writing courses – as a tele-seminar and as a local class in Narragansett, Rhode Island. Narragansett is in one of the most beautiful spots on earth, surrounded by ocean on a rocky point that juts into the Atlantic.

“I feel so lucky to do work that I love. It brings together all of my skills. I have a knack for helping someone take a raw idea and transform it into something marketable. It combines creativity, collaborative energy and intuition. I also love editing, because it’s like a puzzle, finding the perfect way to say something, or drawing the writer out and helping to make the writing come alive for the readers.”

Lisa has been on the faculty of the Harvard Medical School CME Publishing Course for five years. Her clients have landed publishing contracts with Simon and Schuster, Prometheus Books, Beyond Words and Random House. She has been featured in Body and Soul magazine and quoted in many national news outlets.

Regina Brooks, literary agent, writing coach Lisa Tener and Dr. Randy Kamen Gredinger

Advice on Nurturing Creativity and Completing a Book Project

Lisa told me she has notebooks scattered throughout her house. They contain snippets of dreams, book ideas, a word-mandala practice that she recently developed and lots of doodles. Periodically Lisa goes through these journals tearing out the writing and filing the pages into categories. She says that scattered information burdens her energetically.

She shared “It’s interesting how many creative ideas pop out over time in those journals. I think creativity is like breathing. You just do it and do it and most of it never turns into a product, but it’s just something we need to do–for our minds, bodies, hearts and spirits. And if only one-tenth of one percent of it turns into something usable, that’s okay.”

When asked about her interests Lisa says she loves to dance, walk along the cliff walk in Newport, make up songs and sing.

Finding a career that gives her flexibility allows Lisa to be the parent she wants to be. Her current goal is to integrate more play-time into her life. Lisa is an inspiration in her ability to be a wonderful mother, coach, and teacher, helping others bring their books to life.

Spring/summer registration for Lisa’s book-writing courses is now closed. However, as a special offer to my subscribers, you can sign up for the series that begins September 29 or October 1 and she will provide you with the materials and a private book consultation to get an early start on the project this spring/summer. In addition, if you e-mail Lisa before May 31 for the special “Randy’s friends” pricing, you’ll save $1,500 off the entire program. You could have a first draft of your how-to book or memoir in your hands by the end of the year.

Randy@DrRKG.com

www.DrRKG.com

Judy Quint exercises the way most women breathe. It is an essential component of her life. So far she has become a certified Zumba® instructor, an attorney specializing in real estate transactions, and a devoted daughter, wife, mother and friend. She has run the Boston Marathon and beaten a rare disease into submission. One gets the feeling there isn’t anything Judy Quint cannot do once she puts her mind to it. She exudes enthusiasm, passion and a lovely, gentle energy.

“Only child” in a family of four children

Shyrlie and Sam Shriberg with baby Judy, August 1959

Judy came from an interesting family structure. Her mother was 42 and her father 52 when they had Judy, 15 years following the birth of their three sons. Judy’s mother went to her oldest brother’s college graduation when she was pregnant with her baby girl. In essence, she was like an “only child” in a family with four children.

While growing up in Newton, Massachusetts Judy’s father chronically battled a heart condition and diabetes. His legs needed to be amputated when Judy turned 12, shortly before her bat mitzvah. She spent countless hours helping him to learn how to walk with prosthetic legs and pushing him in his wheelchair.

Judy was 16 when her father succumbed to his compromised health issues. Rather than focusing on the loss of her dad, Judy expressed the gratitude she felt for having spent so much quality time with him those last years.

The next 30 years Judy devoted to caring for her mother as she lived locally and her brothers lived across the country. During that time she also raised her own family. Four years ago Judy’s mother died. Judy cherished their relationship and supported her in every way possible to the end.

Pursuing a Career in Law

Judy pursued her personal and professional life as she cared for her aging mother. She graduated from Ithaca College with a sociology major. Judy originally wanted to go to law school to specialize in health law. “I wanted to help women who were being subjected to unwanted hysterectomies by their doctors as an easy solution to their medical problems and trying to lower the population. I wanted to work primarily with Hispanic women as I had a Spanish minor in college and wanted to combine that skill with serving women through the practice of law.”

“When I look back on this early career decision I see that my interest in health was there from the beginning.” After Judy graduated from New England School of Law, her first job was in a law firm that specialized in real estate law and thus began her career. Choosing this job took Judy away from her intended path, but got her on track for going out on her own within a few years. She became her own boss, allowing Judy to make her own schedule so she could care for her mother and later her children.

Marriage, Family and a Rare Diagnosis

Judy got married at the age of 22 following her first year of law school. After experiencing three years of infertility treatment and a miscarriage, Judy at last gave birth to her daughter and thereafter had two more healthy children without medical assistance.

She raised her kids, developed her career as a lawyer and visited her mother everyday in her assisted living home. Now two of her children have been “launched” and are off at college. After her son graduates from high school, Judy and her husband will officially be empty nesters.

Quint Family

Several years ago Judy was diagnosed with a rare autoimmune disease called Pemphigus Vulgaris. Even the name sounds unpleasant. She endured two years of experimental treatment after suffering painful mouth and throat sores that prevented her from eating solid foods for those two years. Judy braved a difficult treatment protocol and is now in remission. She prays that she never experiences a flare up of the painful disease, as there is no known cure.

Judy shared that, “Going through the treatment is similar to what cancer patients do when they receive chemo. The disease made me miserable, but also taught me to live each day fully. I never waste any time putting things off for the future. I want to take it all in now and not sweat the small stuff.” She looked me in the eyes and said, “Life is such a precious gift and we need to embrace it.”

Judy said that she “…always regretted that I did not do what I truly wanted to do in law, which was health care law. But I persevered knowing that someday I would do what I really enjoy and what would make a difference to others.”

Exercise and Health

Judy exercises for her physical and psychological well being. She explained that her genetic predisposition to heart disease, diabetes and high blood pressure made it essential for her to keep a healthy weight and strong body. Although she hated gym class as a young girl, Judy loved the camaraderie of being on a team, which inspired her to improve her skills and make the volleyball team.

During college and law school she sporadically ran, played tennis and worked out, which helped her manage stress and stay in reasonably good shape. Judy realized that she felt more energetic and productive after doing some cardiovascular activity for about an hour 3-4 times weekly. “I kept my weight in check and exercised throughout my 3 pregnancies.”

Judy confesses she “… got hooked. I realized that exercise was essential to my physical and mental well being. I found the magic pill to manage my stress and that was working out.”

Judy Quint and Jamie Gossels cross the Boston Marathon finish line in 1999

Shortly before her fortieth birthday Judy began running more consistently. One day she approached one of her friends and together they decided to run the Boston Marathon. They also combined this goal with raising money for the Leukemia Society. Judy and Jamie diligently prepared for this most challenging event laughing, crying and sharing along the way.

“My body was not made for running long distance. I had big hips, a big tush and extra body fat. I pushed myself and spent time in physical therapy helping me work through pain issues. But I had a goal and I was determined to reach it.

Having my family, including my husband, three kids, youngest brother and his family and especially my mom watching me cross that finish line was my greatest triumph. I realized at that moment I could do absolutely anything if I put my mind to it.”

Judy Quint's bulls-eye shot first time she tried, with son Michael in 2003

Zumba® with Judy

Three years ago Judy took a Zumba® class on a whim with a friend. Although she could not easily learn the combinations, she felt an immediate attraction for this dynamic and effective fitness system that incorporates a fusion of Latin and international music.

“I loved participating in Zumba® classes because I needed to focus on the movement and beat and could not be thinking of my ‘to do’ list. Zumba® class is like taking a mini vacation. It is a time to express myself and enjoy the movements of my body. The heavy sweating is the icing on the cake!”

In a matter of months she was again ‘hooked’ and went on to earn her certification as a Zumba® instructor shortly before her 49th birthday. “I was not intimidated by all the skinny twenty year olds taking the class because I knew I would find my own niche. I felt passion and a calling to make something of this.”

Judy Quint teaches a Zumba® class

Once Judy began teaching, her infectious enthusiasm for Zumba® drew women into her classes. The upbeat music, great moves, fun connections and overall great workout, keeps them coming. She says her students seem more radiant, happy and energized after Zumba® class. The women rock out together and before and after class they share their stories.

Judy feels blessed to finally be able to do what makes her truly happy. She still handles real estate closings in between teaching her classes. “I appreciate the law work. It keeps my mind focused. But I’m so much happier now knowing that my Zumba® classes are awaiting me.”

Volunteering and other passions

Judy’s other passions include spending time with her family, the Red Sox, Bruce Springsteen concerts, travel, biking, the beach, reading, and of course dancing.

In addition Judy volunteers in various organizations such as breast cancer and Leukemia research, World ORT (an organization to educate people to become self-sufficient), President of her Wayland synagogue, and Second Step (organization helping victims of domestic violence). She has also walked in the Avon 2-Day event to raise money for breast cancer research.

Judy Quint and friend finish the Avon 2-day walk

Twenty-five years after Judy graduated law school and began her career, she went full circle back to her interest in health care. Caring for her own body and the physical and psychological well-being of her students through Zumba® brings Judy in touch with her deepest passion.

When asked if she had a favorite saying Judy ran the question by some girlfriends that she faithfully walks with every Sunday. “They said I always say ‘Go for it’ – no matter what they are trying to do with their lives. Apparently I always tell them to stop thinking about it and just go for it. I encourage them each week to cross something new off their ‘to do’ list and then report back to me what they have done.” Judy naturally sees beyond the usual limits for herself as well as her students and friends. She makes it her life work to support and challenge others to realize their unlimited potential.

Bright, articulate and beautiful, Lissa Coffey embodies her favorite quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson, “Nothing great was ever achieved without enthusiasm.” Lissa exudes enthusiasm about relationships, her career and making a difference in the lives of others. In her most recent book, Closure, she exhibits a keen understanding of the power of relationships.

Like many women, Lissa’s personal and professional lives evolved over the years to include multiple roles: daughter, sister, model, songwriter, wife, mother, author, television reporter, actress, producer, Big Sister and coach/lifestyle designer.

It wasn’t until the premature death of her sister’s husband, one of Lissa’s closest friends, that she came to “understand the law of relationship and how we can use this to keep loss in perspective.” This experience was the inspiration behind her most recent book Closure.

Lissa realized that she had unresolved feelings from the amicable divorce she had gone through a few years earlier. Although happily re-married, Lissa wisely chose to explore her unsettled feelings. “I felt it was really weird because I thought [the divorce] was all processed. I realized that the grieving process is different from the closure process. [My sister and I] were going through similar issues. It took me a couple of years to come up with the ideas in the book and practice it myself,” Lissa explained.

Closure combines research and advice from a variety of expert sources, describing the five stages of closure with practical step-by-step exercises and affirmations to understand endings as new beginnings in an empowered way. “Relationships don’t end, they change. We remain connected to the people in our lives through our memories and shared experiences. Coming to terms with the changes in our relationships is what will bring us closure,” writes Lissa.

Family Life in California

Going back to the primary relationships and experiences in her life, Lissa shared some of the bittersweet details of her childhood. Raised in Palo Alto, California, Lissa had a younger brother and sister. “My parents were divorced when I was ten years old. My dad and brother moved away. I had braces, glasses, allergies, and terribly low self-esteem! I started working when I was 16 years old,” Lissa recalled. “Moving as a child from the family home to a much smaller home with a now-single working mother, I took on lots of responsibilities as a young kid.” After graduating from Henry M. Gunn High School, Lissa attended UCLA, graduating with a degree in sociology in three years. She then began her career at ABC Entertainment and married at 22.

Lisa Coffey with her sons as babies

Soon after, Lissa had two sons and planned to be a stay-at-home mom. While raising her sons, Lissa’s creative energy flowed, resulting in the writing and producing of numerous children’s musical recordings and videos. She eventually founded Bright Ideas Production. “I started an independent record label and was competing against big names like Disney, yet still managed to get airtime on Nickelodeon, The Learning Channel and Discovery Kids. Without any track record, I produced the Karate for Kids home video (now on DVD),” Lissa says. All of this happened while dealing with an ADHD diagnosis for her firstborn son, at a time when “the world was just learning about this condition.”

Lissa and Curt hosting a radio show at Disneyland

The experience with her son’s ADHD led her to research alternative treatments. Lissa had met Louise Taylor years back when she was pregnant with her son and dealing with morning sickness. In 1997 Lissa suggested that they co-author a book, “The Healthy Family Handbook” based on her research on alternative treatments for ADHD. Around this time, Lissa discovered that she, too, had ADHD.

Enthusiastically Embracing Opportunities

In 1994, Lissa became an anchor and reporter at a local television station in southern California. Her work exposed her to many fascinating people and new ideas. Lissa thrived on these opportunities. In 1998, after Lissa met Deepak Chopra, she became immersed in learning meditation, hypnotherapy and Ayurveda. In 2000, she traveled to India along with her sons to experience these alternative practices firsthand.

Lissa and her son in India in 2000

Through her study of Ayurveda, Lissa better understood her intrinsic nature and those around her. After unsuccessfully looking for books on Ayurveda and relationships, Lissa researched and wrote her own book called, “What’s Your Dosha, Baby?” Her book and website are about discovering your dominant dosha and as a result, creating better relationships and a more balanced life.

The author of five books, Lissa runs several websites, including Coffey Talk, writes blogs and newsletters on a range of topics such as health and wellness, family, relationships, home environments and book marketing. Lissa is a member of the Screen Actor’s Guild and has appeared on the Today Show. She writes for The Huffington Post as well.

“I’m lucky because I’ve been able to merge all of my interests and passions into a career. I’ve always been very interested in ancient wisdom, all things spiritual. I love music, art, culture, and style. I am passionate about philanthropy, and helping people. I love to write. I love to communicate. When I was young I used to watch The Mary Tyler Moore Show and that’s how I decided I wanted a career in television – now I’m making my own TV shows!” Lissa enthusiastically declares.

Relationships at the Core

Beyond her work, her family life is most important. “Personally, my biggest accomplishment is raising two sons. I’m really proud of my boys because they have great values – they help people, they have big hearts.” After her sons left home, Lissa felt she still had a lot of love to give and brought a new dimension into her life.

In 2009 Lissa became a Big Sister to a 16-year-old girl. “Recently, I’ve been able to contribute to society in a new way which brings me a deep sense of fulfillment,” Lissa says. “I found my dharma which is my purpose in life, doing what I love and helping other people. Life is all about relationships. We’re all connected and we’re here to help each other grow.”

Lissa and Greg Coffey at their wedding in 2001

Lissa credits the study of Ayurveda for helping her better understand herself and her relationships with others. No coincidence then that Lissa re-married in 2001, successfully blending their two families. Her husband, Greg, is Australian with three grown children from a previous marriage.

Lissa believes the 5,000-year-old science of Ayurveda can help any marriage. Understanding our partner’s nature and our own nature is the basis for a healthy relationship according to Lissa. “It’s about loving what you have. The example I give is the tiger. The tiger is a beautiful animal with a lot of strengths. If you married a tiger, you wouldn’t ask [him], ‘why don’t you start acting like a swan?’ Do your best to bring out the strengths in your partner. Love and appreciate those qualities. When there are challenges, work on those together within the parameters of what you have to work with. You can never expect a tiger to act like a swan.”

Lissa Coffey with her mentor Deepak Chopra

According to Deepak Chopra, Lissa’s mentor of many years, “Eastern philosophy teaches us that change is inevitable, and yet suffering is not. …Lissa Coffey shows us how to learn and grow as we move through the evolution of our relationships.”

Debbie Phillips evokes a sense of calm, kindness and strength all at once. When asked about her interests and passions, Debbie immediately shares “I love helping people express their talent in the world and support them in growing into their potential.”

Debbie has been through numerous metamorphoses in her personal and professional life. One career path created an opening for the next.

Lessons learned growing up in a large family in Ohio

Debbie grew up in Ohio with her four siblings. Her father was an accountant by training and a salesman by trade. Although her mother wanted desperately to become a nurse, Debbie’s grandfather was unwilling to pay the bill. Instead Debbie’s mother became an extraordinary homemaker – emanating love, creativity and the capacity to be fully present with her children despite barely making ends meet.

“I truly don’t know how she did it with five little kids and so little support. When times got tough, she jumped in and went to work in factories. Plus, in the early years we moved often… By the time I was in the sixth grade, I had attended six schools. I was “the new girl” every single year from first to sixth grade. My mother made it seem like an adventure and told me I was lucky to get to be the new girl and meet so many new people all the time! ”

Debbie Phillips as a child with her family in Ohio

Debbie’s mother found the positive in whatever life dealt. She felt grateful for her beautiful, healthy family and somehow knew that everything else would fall into place. Debbie confided that growing up she often felt embarrassed by her meager surroundings and vowed that when she grew up, her family would never have to struggle financially.

Debbie, like her mother, embodies an infectious sense of optimism and gratitude. Leaving for college, Debbie felt poised to create the life she dreamed of. She attended Ohio State University and majored in journalism.

Her passion for the media began when she was fifteen, working for the local radio station. Two years later Debbie moved into the world of journalism and photography, working initially for the local newspaper and eventually becoming a reporter for the Columbus Citizen-Journal.

A journalism career turns into a political windfall

Her journalism career quickly evolved into working on the presidential campaign of U.S. Senator (former astronaut) John Glenn. After Senator Glenn dropped out of the race, Debbie became press secretary to Ohio Governor Richard F. Celeste.

Debbie Phillips as a young journalist

In that position, Debbie traveled the world meeting strategists, business and political leaders. “I worked extremely hard and consider that I earned a ‘PhD’ in life and work by the time I finished.” After spending time in politics and government, she attended the Kennedy School at Harvard University where she earned her masters degree in public administration.

Along the way Debbie met her first husband, Brad, and became deeply connected to the unconditional love of his parents. Debbie developed a very deep and loving bond with Brad’s mother, Libby. After the death of Brad’s parents, Debbie’s marriage broke down. After 14 years of marriage, Brad and Debbie sadly decided to divorce.

Debbie nevertheless continued to follow her dream. Not long after her painful divorce, she became a life and executive coach. The coaching profession was then in its infancy stages and few people even knew that such a career existed. Debbie said that she barely knew what it was all about, but something caught her attention. She learned quickly and blossomed in this field.

Coaching career ignites into Women on Fire movement

During her coaching career, Debbie created Vision Day, a strategic planning day for realizing one’s goals. She expanded the business and outreach of Vision Day after meeting her future husband and fellow executive coach, Rob Berkley.

Today Debbie is the mastermind of the “Women on Fire” organization, which is dedicated to connecting remarkable women to each other, to increase their options and possibilities for success. Now there are Women on Fire Tea Parties in several states. She still occasionally leads Vision Days but the bulk of her time is spent leading and expanding Women On Fire from her home-base of Martha’s Vineyard.

Debbie Phillips at a Women on Fire Tea Party in NYC

One of Debbie’s own dreams came true with the publication of the book “Women on Fire: 20 Inspiring Women Share Their Life Secrets (and Save You Years of Struggle!). Losing Brad’s mother is the subject of Debbie’s chapter in her book. As Debbie describes it, “real women telling their real-life stories and struggles and how they made it through their obstacles and challenges.”

Melissa McClain is one of Debbie’s “Women on Fire.” By day Melissa is a crisis management professional and has worked with organizations around the world to create industry leading survivor and family assistance programs and respond to mass casualty incidents.

Melissa McClain with her camera

While she finds her work rewarding, Melissa’s passion reveals itself through her extraordinary photography. After attending a group Vision Day and several Women on Fire tea parties, Melissa has created new goals and dreams for her photography and designs. She is now fully connected to her photography passion and recently had her first solo exhibit in Brooklyn, New York.

Debbie also worked with Jacqueline Pimentel, an art lover and real estate broker living on Martha’s Vineyard. Jacqueline achieved her long held dream of earning her bachelor’s degree in art history from Harvard University with Debbie’s inspiration. Jacqueline recently lost her battle with cancer and throughout that painful process Debbie was by her side encouraging her to live her last days fully.

The theme of gratitude resonated with Debbie. “I am grateful that in the formative stages of my life and career I had people who really cared and helped me along. I’m grateful for having close friends and a best friend for nearly 30 years. I’m grateful for a second chance at marriage and thank my incredible husband Rob Berkley for that.”

Debbie Phillips and her husband, Rob Berkley

Today Debbie and Rob collaborate on creating their own visions for their lives and the lives of others. Debbie’s feeling of gratitude for the love and work in her life shines through even on the most challenging of days. Debbie truly represents the essence of a “Woman on Fire” and says “I have always been filled with such gratitude to do the work I love so very much!”

Additional Gratitude Statements by Debbie Phillips

• “I am grateful every single, solitary day – for the contrasts that have made me appreciate my life. I’ve been shaped by being poor and being wealthy and now I am somewhere in between!
• “I am grateful my parents were warm and loving to me. Grateful that they lived until I was a fully grown woman. (My mother is still living, 75 and running her own business still!)
• “Grateful my parents always talked about the possibilities and impressed how important education was and that I would go to college.
• “Grateful my parents story had a successful ending…they did what they wanted in eventually starting their own bulk-mailing company in Huntsville, AL and were successful after many years of struggle in their younger years.
• “I am grateful during my darkest times of grief and despair, I went to therapy and allowed myself to break open. From it my spiritual life emerged. My precious goddaughter Julia was born during this time and I call her “the tender shoot that arrived in my darkest winter.”
• “I am grateful to live in two of the most beautiful places in the United States – Martha’s Vineyard and Naples, FL and have a partner who supports my dreams.”

Jill Karp lives a life filled with purpose, love and adventure. “I’m never fearful of what’s next,” Jill explains. “I’m more excited about what comes next and I feel strongly that until you close one door, it’s really hard to wholeheartedly open another. Change doesn’t bother me.” It is no wonder then that this resilient wife, mother, entrepreneur and world traveler has embraced the transitions in her life during the past couple of years, trading ballet recitals for squatting in Third World huts.

What motivates Jill to create this kind of impact on others and give back in such a deeply committed way?

From principal dancer to premier dance studio owner

Lithe and lovely, Jill Karp moved to Boston to follow her man. Her dream to become a professional dancer was dashed by a knee injury. After learning about her physical limitation, Jill chose to build her own dance studio. Dancer’s Workshop rapidly became a successful enterprise.

Jill Karp dancing

Swimming and mindfulness exercises are part of her daily routine, despite juggling her family (three sons and husband), dance studio, home, relationships and volunteering for local schools and charities such as the Children’s Hospital League.

An optimist by nature, Jill seems to weather storms with an ease most of us need to cultivate. Her mother received the cruel diagnosis of sinus cancer right after Jill married. Twenty years and eleven surgeries later Jill’s mother succumbed to this unforgiving disease. Until her death, Jill escorted her mother on travel adventures so her mom could see the world. She carefully planned these travel experiences around the needs of her family and dance studio.

Jill’s love for exploring the world began at age 16 with a summer in Israel. “I always had a sense of adventure,” she says. A few years later Jill spent two semesters studying dance in London and traveled extensively.

At the same time, participating in charitable endeavors was a fundamental core value. With her mother as a role model who took part in community- oriented philanthropy, Jill became involved with the Make a Wish Foundation and Leukemia & Lymphoma Society in college.

“It feels like it is my purpose when I help someone else. That’s where I belong,” Jill says. “It’s always been a part of my life. I have my kids and family and my job and then I always have to have something to anchor me.”

The Karp Family

When Jill began looking for new philanthropic endeavors, she wanted something hands-on. She enjoys the “raw, physical piece” of volunteering, especially in Third World settings. “I get as much from changing five people’s lives as 500.”

Missions to an Orphanage in India and Ethiopia with Mercy Corps

Shortly after the death of her best friend Jean, Jill decided to sell her dance studio to move on to the next phase of her life. For the first time in her life Jill was able to devote more time to pursuits outside of the care of her family, home and work. Her boys were growing up: Ben, the eldest, went on to college and Sam and Daniel were following close behind.

Jill decided to take a yearlong sabbatical. Her passion for travel, adventure and philanthropic endeavors flourished after a succession of losses. She began volunteering for Mercy Corps and went to Ethiopia to work with impoverished women and children. Jill balanced this and other missions with the needs of her own boys.

Jill Karp in Ethiopia on Mercy Corps mission

The experience with Mercy Corps resonated deeply with Jill because, as she put it, “It’s not about dumping food in an under served part of the world. It’s about responsible and sustainable change. Teaching people to grow crops so they can feed themselves, helping them to build schools so they can educate themselves. It’s creating lasting change.”

Fascinated by Indian culture Jill decided next to spend some time at the Premavasam orphanage in Chennai working with disabled children. Here Jill witnessed devastating poverty, and children abandoned by their mothers or left to die in the streets.

Jill described children eating a single meal a day and their only hope resting on their ability to get an education. The filthy orphanage lacked resources to a degree that is hard to fully comprehend in our culture. By choosing to sponsor 20 children in the orphanage, Jill has ensured that they will receive decent housing, food and an education. She advocates tirelessly for these children.

One of the many letters Jill received from Kavitha, a young girl she sponsors:

Kavitha in an Indian orphanage

Dear Jill,

I am fine, I hope you also fine! I am happy to write this letter. I am studying 10th standard at St. Ann’s Matriculation.Hr. secondary school. I go to the school by bicylcle everyday. Now we started to study 10th Standard subjects. I like that very much. I am going to write the annual examination in 15th of March. It will go till March 23rd. I have sent my report card to you. In our quarterly holidays we went to Velankanni Church and last month we went to watch a movie. We enjoyed the movie. We celebrated Republic Day on January 26th. In our home here we conducted some competitions. I participated in Dance, Running Race and poetry competitions. I got first prize in Running Race and Dance. Second prize in poetry.

Now we shifted our room in our home. It is very large and I feel comfortable and I am happy being with my friends. I am very thankful to you for your love and help towards my studies. I thank you for your love and concern towards me. I pray to God for your good health and welfare. Please pray for us.

Yours lovingly,

Kavitha

When asked what drives Jill to pursue these missions, she believes that children are the hope of the future. She also loves traveling to other cultures and working in the heart of raw circumstances. “I come home and feel so blessed with my own family. I am fortunate to live a full life and be able to give back.”

Interestingly Jill is never apprehensive when she moves on to the next philanthropic travel adventure. She loves the excitement of the unknown and derives great happiness from these experiences.

Jill Karp at orphanage in India

“My family has learned to support me in these endeavors. They know “that when mommy’s happy, everyone is happy. I also want to set an example for my kids, so they know how important it is to always give back and see the bigger picture.”

A Life Filled with New Pursuits and Philanthropic Endeavors

Jill continues to pursue these and other missions from her home base. She recently started a business in the Boston area called LESS, a business devoted to organizing, restructuring and energizing homes for people in transition. “I only take a single client at a time. I love being part of a person’s transformation.” Changing one life at a time – whether here in Boston or in Ethiopia or India – Jill takes her mission to help others with her wherever she goes.

Jill makes life decisions based on her heart. “I’m deeply committed to creating a life that fulfills me and makes a difference.” She manages to build rituals into her day that support her mentally and physically regardless of her schedule.

One of those women that make many of us wonder, ‘How does she manage it all?‘ Jill goes about her day with a certain grace and lightness. She assumes a leadership role that embraces others who want to work beside her and learn from her.

She helped establish the Wayland Angels several years ago, an agency that helps families in crisis in her local community, and continues to stay involved. In addition Jill serves on the allocation committee for community service planning for Combined Jewish Philanthropies.

Jill with participant at the Women2Women workshop in 2009

Jill recently agreed to participate in Women2Women, a workshop through Empower Peace in which young women from around the globe come together at Lesley College to learn the skills of negotiation. The idea behind the program is for women who plan careers in government to learn how to express themselves authentically and listen deeply to one another so they can better understand each other’s perspectives.

When asked what the driving force is behind her boundless energy and philanthropic endeavors, Jill says, “I don’t think there’s anything better that you can do in this world than bring light wherever you go. Every day I think how I can make today really matter.”

Sandy just underwent a mastectomy followed by reconstructive surgery for breast cancer. When she returned home, she put on her JILLIE® and wore the cozy 100% cotton garment throughout her recuperation. “It was soft and feminine and made me feel better, less like a patient,” she said. “The Velcro made access to my post-surgical areas easily accessible, too. Knowing the company was founded by two women touched by breast cancer and that their mission was to help women like me felt especially inspiring.”

Great ideas sometimes come from life’s most difficult experiences. JILLIES came to fruition as the result of a wonderful friendship between two women with a passion to make a difference in the lives of women undergoing breast cancer treatment and recovery.

Lauren Penn and Margie Schultz Lipshutz immediately gravitated towards each other when their children were in elementary school. They planned  family vacations together and regular couples nights out. Lauren and Margie shared the joys and challenges of everyday life. Their friendship and deep regard for one another is evident as soon as you meet them.

They said they had always wanted to work together in some capacity, although at the time they had no idea what that might be.

When they first met Margie had just started a small specialty catering business. She previously worked in the nonprofit health care field with a research team collecting and analyzing data from cancer patients. Margie considered health care as her vocation and cooking her creative outlet. However, as her children grew she wanted to be available to them, but without a ‘real job’ she felt that something was missing in her life.

Margie’s Career and Life Experiences

Woman having MammogramMargie’s interest in cancer research emerged from the complications and treatment around her mother’s breast cancer. Back in the early 1980’s, “My mother was diagnosed with early stage breast cancer when she was 46 years old, when breast cancer was considered a disease of the aged. She discovered it early and fortunately found a surgeon who was one of the pioneers of breast conserving surgery. My mother was one of the first women to have a lumpectomy instead of a mastectomy followed by radiation therapy. At that time illnesses, such as cancer, were rarely discussed so there was very little conversation in our house regarding what my mother was going through. There was no professional support for my mother’s or our family’s emotional needs,” Margie explained. Her mother managed her treatment alone, remaining stoic and silent about her experiences throughout.Margie’s way of handling this difficult time was to assume the responsibility of cooking the family dinners. She desperately wanted everything to feel normal, even though her world had been turned upside down. Unspoken anxiety dominated their family on and off over the next decade.

Margie said, “The emotional part of having cancer was not in the forefront back then. The focus was on the science. Even with my knowledge of the research, I had no idea of how my mother would fare both physically and emotionally during her treatment.

“The ongoing persistence and dedication by physicians, scientists, researchers, and patients have led us to where we are today. The good news is that the great strides made over the past 25 years in the early detection, diagnosis, and treatments for breast cancer have led to so many women living full and happy lives despite their disease. My mother is a 27 year survivor and going strong!”

“Currently the number of women living with breast cancer is unprecedented. The emphasis of research and care weighs heavily on the medical side, which of course, is of the utmost importance. However, there are emotional, physical, and daily life issues that women, as patients, have to deal with. The information available to assist in these areas is often sparse and hard to find. This is where JILLIES comes into to play,” Margie said.

Lauren’s Career and Life Experiences

Lauren considered herself a career person with ambitious goals and had a successful professional career in the marketing industry. She hadn’t placed much importance on marrying and having a family until at age 31, a special man walked into her life. He had just recently separated from his wife with whom he had three young children.

Their courtship continued throughout his complicated divorce and almost two years later they married. Lauren worked demanding jobs until John’s ex-wife chose to move to Florida taking with her their eldest daughter, while giving the two younger children to them.

After some time, Lauren decided to put her career on hold and focus on pulling the family together. “The kids were traumatized by their mother’s departure and we needed to focus on them and their well being above all else. I couldn’t do my work and raise these children. Someone had to take care and make this family work. Within a few years the eldest daughter who was living in Florida with her mother decided she wanted to live with them as well.

Three women model JILLIES

Lauren’s Personal Experience with Breast Cancer

Lauren noticed a lump in her breast when she was 41. Her doctor reassured her it was nothing worrisome. A month later she went for a mammogram and was told that they needed to biopsy the small mass.

“I knew something was wrong. I had a lot of experience dealing with cancer. My mother is the survivor of three different types of cancer, including breast cancer She’s a very strong woman and has been through the trenches. As a teen and young adult I watched my mother deal with each diagnosis and treatment with strength, dignity and complete resolve. Although I worked out, ate healthy and tried to life a healthy lifestyle, I couldn’t control my genetic makeup. Thankfully we caught the cancer in an early stage.”

“I felt so out of control during those months between the realities at home and now breast cancer.” Telling her story, Lauren’s face flushed. She fought back the tears and sat quietly until the wave of sadness passed. Margie too sat in silence.

Lauren then shared that she needed to feel some semblance of control through this process. When she learned that the radiologist would be tattooing her to map out the sites that needed radiation, she decided to use her voice.

She explained, “You can have a say in your treatment and can choose to chart your own course.” In short order she found a radiologist that was willing to map out the sites using ink that could eventually be removed without invasive procedures. In another instance, when she questioned the size of the field being mapped out for radiation therapy, the doctor agreed that the site did not need to be so large and re-mapped the treatment area.

The treatment went remarkably well, even though Lauren was forewarned about numerous potential side effects. “The only time I felt sick was when I entered the hospital for treatment and had to put on that johnny.” Lauren chose to change in the treatment room, refusing to sit in the waiting room feeling like a cancer patient. She said, “I needed to do this for my own dignity and sense of self. Sitting in the co-ed waiting room with a johnny on made me feel uncomfortable and exposed. I knew this was a time I needed to take care of myself and listen carefully to my inner voice. The doctors were surprisingly cooperative.”

Margie and Lauren often talked about some of the frustrations of being a patient. Lauren’s husband did not like the fact that she had challenged some of the routine treatment procedures or that she was vocal with her feelings about her medical care. Lauren knew for her recovery, she had to reclaim her life and follow her own instincts. “It was my nature to challenge the status quo that lead me take action on behalf of other breast cancer patients. Margie shared my vision. In our small way, we believe we can make a difference,” Lauren said.

Inspiration turns into a mission and the creation of JILLIES

Their mission became making women feel more empowered as they went through their treatment protocols. One wintry afternoon they came up with a design for a feminine garment women could wear during cancer treatment. They met with people in the fashion, fabric and medical worlds and came up with the “JILLIE.”

JILLIES are beautiful, luxurious, feminine garments, made of 100% cotton in a pale blush color. They are perfectly suited for women undergoing breast cancer treatment and mammograms. Lauren and Margie have been introducing and donating JILLIES to breast care facilities around the New England area. They are now distributing and selling these beautiful garments nationwide and sell them on their website as well.

Lauren offered, “Of course finding a cure is paramount. However we feel we can help women in the midst of this tremendously challenging time feel better during their ordeal. Feeling good in the face of treatment helps the healing process. JILLIES are one tangible way of allowing women to feel more dignified, comfortable and feminine.”

Lauren and Margie both faced their own struggles, but came together in their inspired mission to make a difference in the lives of women dealing with breast cancer. Margie added, “We’re challenging the medical community to do a better job, to better understand the woman attached to those breasts. The concept and realization of JILLIES is just the beginning.” They also want to promote groups for women who have undergone treatment and are waiting for their six month follow-up visit with their oncologist. Margie and Lauren both agreed that this is a particularly difficult time for women. This lull between treatment and follow-up can be a time riddled with questions, uncertainty and anxiety. Their website is filled with resources and information to help women with breast cancer.

JILLIES Garment

Margie and Lauren are two extraordinary women making a positive difference in the lives of women as they face a breast cancer diagnosis, treatment and beyond. They both know from witnessing the impact of breast cancer that research alone is not enough. Women need support, and a sense of empowerment and dignity. Margie and Lauren are committed to helping women gain balance and feel better as they forge ahead during this challenging time of their lives.

But they are only two in number and the needs are great. They have put their own personal funds to establish this non-profit organization and manufacture the garments. “We hope to find individuals and corporations who see the value in our mission and are willing to provide the funding necessary to outfit all breast cancer patients with their own JILLIE and other support to make living with the disease a bit easier,” stated Lauren.

Learn more about Lauren and Margie along with their mission and products by visiting their website at www.jillies.com

*What are JILLIES?

“JILLIES was created from a passion to stand up and conquer issues around breast cancer. This is not about what happens with medical care, but what comes up in daily life, the day to day routines that may be altered because of breast cancer. JILLIES is here to help by giving resources and tips on many of the non-medical concerns women with breast cancer have. We are committed to helping make a small difference in the treatment experience for breast cancer by designing a garment called the JILLIE, as a replacement for the standard hospital Johnnie. The JILLIE is for women only and provides the comfort, privacy and style that are missing from standard hospital garments. Our hopes are to help make the diagnosis, treatment, and living with breast cancer a bit less stressful and a lot more comfortable. We hope you find JILLIES information, links, and garments useful.”

Meeting Marla for the first time you would never guess that this successful watercolorist traded a lucrative career in finance for the sake of her creative muse and family harmony. Now the risk she took seems like the right decision but at the time it was far from a sure bet. How did Marla make the transition from high-heels and power suits to paint brushes and canvases?

"An Apple A Day" by Marla Greenfield, watercolor on paper

Marla entered the predominantly male investment business directly after receiving her MBA from Boston University in the early 1980, joining the ranks of a small institutional investment banking firm specializing in emerging growth companies. She stepped up to the challenge with gusto, grew fabulous accounts, and became a star on the team. Marla was young, smart, and passionate about her work.

During that time, Marla met her soul mate, Jim, who also worked in the investment business. After Marla and Jim married in 1983, they traveled, shared a multitude of adventures and after six years of work and play decided to start their family.

Fortunately Marla’s pregnancy went well and she gave birth to a beautiful daughter, Anna. Marla loved being a mother, yet she also longed to return to the excitement of her work. Three months after Anna’s birth, Marla hired a nanny and rejoined her career in the investment business.

Motherhood marks the beginning of major changes

Marla found that balancing motherhood and her job left her feeling polarized. Everything in her life shifted with the birth of Anna. Leaving her little girl in the morning was difficult and managing a succession of nannies was complicated. She felt both grateful and resentful for the nannies that took turns living in her home, caring for her precious daughter.

Marla had created a fabulous niche for herself in Boston’s financial circles. She did not feel ready to walk away from the professional status she had worked so hard to create. When Marla decided to work part-time in an industry that seldom allowed for anything but total commitment, she brought enough value to her firm that the partners agreed to this special arrangement.

Returning to work presented challenges, particularly fitting in while having a unique work schedule. Marla did exceptionally well in institutional sales, at least as well as many of the full-time employees. At home she had her beautiful little family. Still, Marla began to feel alienated, as she did not have a sizable support system of female colleagues or close friends she relied on. She was perpetually torn about her choices. When she was at work, she missed being with Anna and when she was with Anna she missed the action of her job.

Despite her inner conflict, she continued working. Almost four years later Marla gave birth to Michael. She told me, “My life was suddenly turned upside down.” For the first time in their married lives, she and Jim faced some challenges. As Marla explained, “Jim’s work life hardly changed at all with the birth of Anna or Michael and mine had become complicated and chaotic. I had to make so many adjustments, being the mother. I knew it wasn’t Jim’s fault. It just didn’t seem fair, so sometimes I would feel angry and resentful. It was difficult being pulled in so many directions. I just did not know what to do.”

Although Marla stayed with her job for another six years, the situation took its toll. She struggled with giving up the intellectually stimulating people and the high-powered, financially rewarding environment. She was stymied by a lack of outlets to vent her frustrations and not enough time to pursue activities for herself. Then just as Marla was about to turn forty, she discovered her father had an aggressive form of prostate cancer.  In addition, with her children older (Anna was 10 and Michael was 6), she felt she was nearing a time when it would be important for her to be more present, especially as the children approached middle and high school. She also wanted to further explore her creative aptitude for painting.

"My Cup of Tea" by Marla Greenfield, watercolor on paper

“It wasn’t from guilt that I decided to leave work, it was that in my heart I knew I needed and wanted to be around my family. I wanted every moment possible with my father and wanted more time with my children.” With Jim’s support, Marla left her corporate career.

Family and art become the focus

Marla knew her resignation would be a big change, but she was not prepared for the isolation that was to come. At the local school and community meetings, she felt disconnected. All the women seemed to be talking about their respective play groups, the politics of the school system, or fundraising events. They used a vocabulary that was unfamiliar to Marla. “I just didn’t share the same experiences. The women seemed to be good friends and very involved in each others lives. There was also a big part of my life that I couldn’t talk about with them. I had lost a huge part of my identity.”

She spent more time with her parents and children. Her life was good, although there were moments when she missed the independence of her corporate career. Marla had not built many close relationships outside of her work environment and did not have an extensive support system revolving around her family.

Not too long after the devastating loss of her father, Marla delved more deeply into her painting. She had always loved to paint, but now she felt she could devote herself to this passion. The time had come for Marla to actively pursue one of her untapped aptitudes and build new relationships.

It took about three years to adjust from the bawdy trading room to the quiet existence of suburban life. Her children became the center of her world and flourished in school, sports, and their own friendships. Marla began painting more, yet her sense of where she belonged was still hazy, except when her children were home or when she was taking one of her watercolor classes.

Marla joined a cooperative gallery where she met a large group of local artists. Friendships emerged and as she became more drawn in to this small community, her commitment to painting blossomed. Enlivened by her immersion into art, Marla embraced the opportunity to learn and grow.

"The Wedding" by Marla Greenfield, watercolor on paper

Marla entered juried competitions and earned a membership into the New England Watercolor Society. At first showing her work intimidated Marla. The potential rejection and judgment was daunting. In time Marla went from being an unknown artist without a resume to winning numerous awards and prizes for her watercolor paintings. The awards came even before her sense of confidence began to shift.

Marla succeeds in her transition

For some time, Marla still secretly struggled with the identity issues that came with giving up her successful corporate career and finding her aptitude in an entirely different arena. She went from newbie art student, soaking in the challenges of this unfamiliar learning curve, to participating in showings of her paintings.

In time Marla moved into the role of teacher and began helping other emerging artists. Eventually she found her way to a leadership role in the art world, serving as President of the New England Watercolor Society. Marla began speaking about her journey as an artist and her work in a variety of venues.

Red Door by Marla Greenfield, watercolor on paper

Initially, Marla’s transition from the corporate world to home life had felt lonely and frustrating without a cohesive support system to encourage her growth and development. Step by step she found a way to achieve balance in her relationships, in her role as a mother and as a woman infused with talents, dreams, and passions.

Marla continues to grow and inspire others to reach their potential artistically. She continues to win awards and her work can be seen at exhibits around the country. For more information about Marla’s extraordinary work, visit her website marlagreenfield.com