When Nan’s first son, Westin, was born with pervasive developmental delay, her personal and professional trajectory took shape. Her life’s work began – a journey to support her son and advocate for those with diverse needs. Her unique caregiving journey led to a doctorate degree in Leadership for while working full-time as an Associate Professor at Thompson Rivers University, and raising two sons. She completed this degree at the age of 55! She recently published her first book, Mothers’ gifts : Best practice for supporting children with exceptional needs. In retirement, Nan offers her lived experiences and academic expertise to support families and their loved ones to reach their best lives.