I was fortunately born into a family that nutured and encouraged the respect and integrity of all living things. At an early age I was taking in all species of animals. By my 20s I had been a professional model, IBM executive, served in the military and headed West to be a cowgirl. I had also devoted my life to pushing the boundaries of knowledge in animal and environmental welfare. The animals in my life have been my teachers and I give thanks through this spirit for this opportunity.