Deborah Anthony was born into a middle class family and raised in Nova Scotia, Canada, with the exception of a decade spent in Quebec during her early childhood. As the second of five children, she developed a deep sense of resilience and empathy qualities that would shape her perspective on life.

At the age of two and a half, Deborah contracted polio during an epidemic in Nova Scotia in the 1950s. Enduring multiple surgeries and years of recovery, she emerged with profound gratitude for the unique perspective her journey afforded her. Observing life rather than always participating in it became one of her greatest teachers, reinforcing her belief that even hardship can be a gift. She often reflects that those who have never faced illness may have missed an opportunity for deeper understanding.

Thanks to the dedication of her parents and the medical care she received, Deborah regained mobility and avoided a lifetime in a wheelchair for which she will be eternally grateful.

Professionally, Deborah has had a diverse and accomplished career spanning public service with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, marketing and promotions in the retail sector, and roles in real estate and management. Additionally, she has contributed daily inspirational messages on a local radio station, sharing wisdom and encouragement with her community.

Deborah is a mother of four. The loss of her first-born child, in whose honor this book is written, greatly impacted her life and ultimately contributed to the end of her marriage. Through immense personal loss, she discovered a deeper calling to support and connect with other bereaved parents, offering comfort and guidance through shared experience.

Today, Deborah resides in Nova Scotia with her partner, cherishing time with their grandchildren, embarking on road trips, and embracing her love for the ocean. She finds great fulfillment in reaching out to others, believing that sharing her journey is not just a personal mission, but her life’s true purpose.