Board President

I have been supporting Healing Waters for over 10 years. Providing wilderness trips is a rewarding way to share my love for the outdoors and help others connect with nature, just as my parents have done for me when I was younger.

I am thrilled to be part of this remarkable organization. I am a hard-working and dedicated individual who strongly believes in the transformative power of nature. As a volunteer and board member, I have the privilege of combining my passion for outdoor adventures with my commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of others. In my professional life, I work as a plumber, which not only reflects my love for water but also my enthusiasm for exhilarating activities like rafting. Together, let us embark on a journey of healing and empowerment through the wonders of nature.

I started as a client with Healing Waters in 2022. I attended a weekend cabin trip with my four children. That one weekend trip made a lasting impression on me as I then came back In 2017 to train as a river guide and then joined the board in 2020. I believe that being in nature helps people mentally, physically and emotionally. I do this because I want to help others get out of their neighborhood and enjoy nature-hood.

A Father grandfather’s great grandfather from Oklahoma, grew up as a cowboy. I started my relationship with Healing Waters as a client in 2014. Immediately fell in love with the organization. Found my way thur the kitchen cooking to the ultimate river guiding. I now have a river family.

I am a retired RN, w/42yrs experienced focused in healthcare management, college health, case management, sports medicine, supervision, leadership & mentoring. I have had prior experience at St. Paul Lutheran Church’s Hunger Task Force, Endowment Committee, and Tanzania Task Force. I joined Healing Waters board in 2020, during the pandemic in order to support the mission of service to persons challenging HIV and AIDS, chronic illnesses, mental health conditions & those young persons navigating the realities of our world. I am committed to open affordable access to nature, health and wellness for all persons, especially LGBTQ and BIPOC peoples.

I have been a white water rafting guide since 1992. I believe that spending time outdoors and bringing nature into your everyday life can benefit both your mental and physical wellbeing. Rafting experiences help not only bring team work and collaboration, but an experience to face your fears and overcome them. Even a weekend white water rafting experience can change the lives of young people by building confidence through overcoming challenges.

I worked in the education sector in Hong Kong for 30 years. Living in that bustling city of high-rises and busy streets was exciting, but I found myself taking most of my vacations decompressing in the natural landscapes of northern California. Kayaking was always a highlight of my stays, feeling the calming peace of rivers, lakes, and the ocean. So when I moved permanently back to California, one way I found to contribute to my LGBTQ+ community and others in search of well-being was to join the board of Healing Waters, so that I could help others have the opportunity to experience the healing power of nature.