Faces of Long Island celebrates the uniqueness of everyday Long Islanders. In their own words, they tell us about their life experiences, challenges and triumphs. Newsday launched this social media journey into the human experience to shine a light on the diverse people of this wonderful place we call home.

‘We want to empower people so they know that they can make the world a better place.’

Riverhead

“I dedicate my life to kindness and compassion; I met my husband, John, through mutual friends when we were teenagers and we stayed friends throughout our twenties. I was one of the first people to be involved with Long Island Orchestrating for Nature which John founded in 2012. In a weird way, we were basically high school sweethearts!

“One of the first rescues we did together was in Plainview. We went to a location to rescue chickens and peafowl and ended up also rescuing a pigeon who had a dart in their wing; we also saved a kitten that was trapped in a car’s wheel well.

“While animal welfare is my passion, I believe in living a healthy and mindful lifestyle. I am also an artist. I was actually featured in a 2021 documentary titled “The Face of Fashion is Fear” where I appeared in full body paint at an animal rights rally.

If you see something abusive going on, say something!

“I have also been recognized by PETA with a Hero for Coyotes Award following the announcement that the luxury outerwear company Canada Goose went fur-free which is an initiative that I was very involved with. It was nice to be recognized for my efforts, but I do this work to spread kindness and compassion, not to gain recognition for myself. I also love educating children to help them attain love and compassion for all species.

“Right now, John and I are working on finding a location to establish a rescue and advocacy education center for Humane Long Island which is what we rebranded LION this year; we think it will probably be on the East End. We hope that the education center will help the public understand how much planning work goes into every protest and demonstration.

“The laws protecting animals are weak and there aren’t many grants around that are dedicated to rescuing animals, especially farmed animals. We spend a lot of time talking to legislators trying to get this changed. We want to empower people so they know that they can make the world a better place.

“If you see something abusive going on, say something! Your opinion matters, especially if it saves a living creature from suffering.”

Interviewed by Meagan Meehan

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