About Me
My Story
I never expected that my journey as a cancer survivor would be a pivotal part of my story. When the diagnosis came—right after a painful divorce, an empty nest, and years of long, draining commutes—I found myself in the midst of a storm I couldn’t control. In that difficult season, God met me in the rawest places of fear, anxiety, and loss, beginning a transformation of my pain into a deeper faith and healing.
Born and raised in the Chicago area, I now live in Madison, Wisconsin, with my husband and best friend, Craig Carstens. I have two grown children who continue to be a blessing in my life.
When I’m not writing encouragement or speaking, you can find me dancing, bike riding, hiking in nature, exploring whole-food nutrition, or spending time with Craig. And of course, I’ll happily pause whatever I’m doing for a quick puppy break to give some pets behind the ears!
With more than 30 years of experience in clinical neurophysiology, I bring both professional insight and personal honesty to my writing and ministry. My passion is to walk alongside others facing cancer—patients, loved ones, and caregivers—offering hope, strength, and peace that can only be found in God.
Today, I share encouragement through writing, speaking, and creating a community for those on the cancer journey. My heart is to help others see that even in life’s hardest places, God remains faithful and present.
One of my favorite phrases is 'from crap to compost.' Only God can recycle the junk of fear, anxiety, and loss and turn it into something new—something full of meaning and purpose—through a growing relationship with Him.
My writing roots
My writing journey as a cancer survivor began through daily journaling, helping me process my emotions and the interactions with those around me during my diagnosis. Each story I share carries a piece of the blessing I’ve received from Christ along the way, reflecting His presence and grace. It’s a narrative woven with scripture that emphasizes faith and healing, providing writing encouragement through every part of this journey.
My style
I write with God as my companion and inspiration—drawing from the depths I find in quiet moments with Him, the lessons from my journey as a cancer survivor, and sometimes from the pain that has shaped and refined me. Through faith and healing, I seek to offer writing encouragement to others navigating their own challenges.
