Bullies

There are some stories we choose to tell, and others we feel compelled to tell.
Bullies is one of those stories.
Set within a quiet, close-knit rural community, the novel begins with a tragedy that no parent, teacher, or community ever wants to face the loss of a twelve-year-old child. What makes this loss even more devastating is not only its suddenness, but the uncomfortable truth behind it: bullying.
As the story unfolds, I take readers beyond the surface of this heartbreaking event and into the emotional landscape of those left behind family members searching for answers, classmates struggling with guilt and confusion, and educators grappling with the limits of their influence.
This is not simply a story about bullying. It is a story about silence, about missed signs, about the complexities of growing up, and about the responsibility we all share in protecting our children.
Having spent decades working closely with young people, I have seen firsthand how deeply words and actions can affect a developing mind. Too often, these struggles remain hidden until it is too late. Through Bullies, my hope is to bring these realities into the light to encourage conversations that are honest, uncomfortable, and ultimately necessary.
If this book does anything, I hope it opens eyes, softens hearts, and inspires change.

Trees For the Forest

 Life has a way of humbling us, often when we least expect it.
Trees For the Forest is a very different kind of story, yet one that is equally rooted in the realities of everyday life. It follows Shane Murphy, a man whose world is abruptly turned upside down when he finds himself raising his two young children on his own.
Shane is far from perfect. In fact, he begins his journey with a narrow perspective on life, relationships, and even his role as a parent. But as he navigates the chaos of single parenthood balancing responsibility, career changes, and the unpredictable nature of children, he is slowly forced to confront his own assumptions.
Through a series of humorous misadventures, awkward realizations, and deeply human moments, Shane begins to evolve. His journey is not about becoming flawless, but about becoming aware about learning, often the hard way, what it truly means to care, to listen, and to grow.
This novel allowed me to explore the lighter side of life while still touching on meaningful themes such as gender roles, parenting, and personal transformation. It is, at its heart, a story about change and the idea that it is never too late to become a better version of ourselves.

Speaking Engagements

​I am available for speaking engagements across Eastern and Central Ontario, where I connect with audiences through meaningful, thought-provoking conversations rooted in real-life experience and professional insight.
With over three decades in education and a deep understanding of the challenges facing today’s youth and communities, my goal is to create impactful discussions that inspire awareness, empathy, and positive change.
Available For:

• Student groups (middle school, high school, and post-secondary)
• Teachers and educators
• Women’s groups and community organizations

Speaking Topics Include:

• Bullying and Its Lasting Impact
  Exploring the emotional, psychological, and societal effects of bullying, and how we can better support those affected.
• Contemporary Education
  A reflective look at the current education system, its challenges, and the evolving needs of students and educators.
• Women’s Empowerment
  Encouraging strength, confidence, and resilience through open dialogue and shared experiences.

Additional topics can be tailored to suit the needs of your group or organization.
Each session is designed to be engaging, authentic, and relevant, leaving audiences not only informed, but deeply moved and motivated to take action.