Fete Lifestyle Magazine February 2024 - Leadership Issue | Page 46

When did your dream turn into a reality?

In a strange way, it feels like my reality turned into a dream- I lost my dad 20 years ago this April 19th. He passed away

unexpectedly, but the little things about him are the big ways I feel his love and spirit surrounding me: Lake Geneva sunsets, walks on the beach, pennies from heaven, songs playing on the radio at the perfect time… dreams.

My dad was a pillar of strength and wisdom for so many, and grappling with his loss was a profound struggle until I realized that I didn’t need to ‘move on’ but I could ‘move forward’ with his spirit

alongside of me. This grief carved a deep imprint on my heart, yet it's in this space a nurturing hope continues to connect us, letting his love and legacy guide and inspire me. Rather than learning to live without him, I've learned to live enveloped in his love, allowing it to empower and bring strength to me and extend it to the world. One of the things that was important to me after he passed was giving back in his honor. In my efforts over the years, I felt it was important to

include others who have lost a loved one so they could have the same opportunity to experience the peace I was longing for.

My passion evolved into creating tangible and meaningful ways to commemorate anniversaries, heavenly birthdays, holidays, or any day- ensuring that my children, and those in my wider community could feel connected to their loved ones, feeling comforted that the love and legacy alive in their hearts can make a positive and profound impact.