Debbie has been through unimaginable tradgey and come through it with inspiring strength.  She received the call that is every parent's worst nightmare - her twenty-six year old son Alex had been found dead.  Just nine years prior to that, he had been diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder and became addicted to drugs and alcohol. Throughout her journey as a single mom of three, she went through many challenges with Alex's mental illness and addiction, and she supported him, fought for him, and loved him through his journey. They had a close loving relationship and she found her path to peace.

In her journey through grief - grieving while Alex was alive - the loss of how he was and how things were prior to his mental illness and addiction - and then grieving the loss after he passed away, Debbie discovered the power of love, mindset, and courage.  

Today, Debbie inspires others who are facing the challenges of having a child with mental illness and addiction or who have lost a child.  She walks with them on their journey, helping them regain their natual emotional resilience and self love and find peace and purpose in their lives. Debbie has developed a unique process called Peace Beyond the Pain, which provides holistic tools and strategies for navigating grief, loss, pain, hopelessness, overwhelm, fear, and guilt. 

Debbie is the author of the book Finding Peace and Purpose Amidst the Tears: My Journey of the Love and Loss of My Son through His Mental Illness and Addiction and is the host of the internet TV talk show and podcast Finding Peace Beyond the Pain on the Bold Brave TV Network.  She has been a guest on many podcasts, was featured on WAMV Radio in January of 2024, and in March of 2022 was recognized by one of the world’s biggest influencers, Tony Robbins, for her journey of turning her pain into purpose by helping parents in the aftermath of losing her 26-year old son following his nine-year battle with schizoaffective disorder and addiction.

With a diverse professional background in coaching, speaking, writing, law, and special needs, Debbie brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her work.  Debbie is committed to making a difference in the lives of those who are struggling with a loved one's mental illness and addiction and those who have lost a loved one, reminding them that life is precious and that there is peace beyond the pain.