A Story from Our Founder

I recently turned 50 and as many people do on significant birthdays, especially ones later in life, I began reflecting. I have had a storied life. I’m an immigrant to the United States. I came over from Australia with a suitcase and little money. My grandparents were displaced persons after WWII, so my journey seemed like a full circle moment. I am also gay. I was born in 1973, when the American Psychological Association removed homosexuality as a mental disorder. When laws changed again in 2012, I was able to marry my partner. Over these 50 years, rights for the LGBTQ+ community have changed from electric shock “treatment” (yes, I know an older lady who received this) to marriage laws that enable my partner to come into my hospital room and advocate on my behalf. I also have a niece who is transgender, and I worry about her growing up in a world like what I did in the 1980’s being gay. I want her to know, life gets better. I have always been interested in my family history from my displaced grandparents to my great uncle killed in WWI in the Battle of the Bulge. I had stories some written some on cassette tape (yes) from my grandparents and I wanted to preserve and share these with my broader family. For all these reasons and for many years I have wanted to start My Storied Life platform. To write, save and share memories with family and friends. I often wish I could talk to some of those who have passed. I also want others to hear my stories. This is my way of creating something that endures, for me, my family and friends and to you, for your family and friends.