My Story: From Processed Foods to Purpose

I didn’t grow up eating healthy—far from it. My childhood was fueled by sugar, white bread, and processed everything. Nutrition wasn’t even on my radar until cancer struck my family. My mom was first diagnosed with breast cancer when I was in third grade, and again shortly after I graduated high school. The second time, we radically changed our diets, ditching processed foods for whole, nourishing meals—and I saw firsthand how food helped her feel stronger and fight harder.

Watching my mom’s courage and the healing power of nutrition inspired me to become a dietitian. She passed at just 47 years old, and her strength still fuels my mission today. I went back to school, earned my degrees in Dietetics and Nutrition, and began teaching and helping others take back control of their health.

But life wasn’t done testing me. Just weeks before our wedding, my fiancé Neil was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. He lived only 10 months. At 34, I was a widow—and more determined than ever to honor the lives of those I loved by helping others live well.

So I returned to earn my PhD in Nutrition and dedicated my career to researching how food can fight disease, strengthen the body, and improve lives. Today, I’m a registered dietitian, college professor, business owner, and the founder of About Thyme Nutrition. I live in Deerfield Beach with my husband Rob, our two dogs, and a full house of love (and grandkids!).

Nutrition isn’t just my profession—it’s my purpose. Every day, I get to educate, empower, and inspire others to take charge of their health, one bite at a time.