Dr. Beth Leilani Mercado's life reads like a best selling novel. She was born into poverty, began a thriving career, endured an emotionally destructive marriage, embarked on a spiritual journey, and suffered a stroke that left her paralyzed when she was only 42. Her recovery back to health was long and arduous but, she triumphantly earned a doctorate degree in psychology and followed it up by writing 2 books.

In one book, My Heart Sings, Dr. Beth writes, "Life is a school. While we are here, we will continue to experience events that will teach us what we need to learn – if we are open to it.

She definitely has learned a lot. Her life story of trauma and transformation can provide some much needed hope and inspiration as we embark on a brand new year.