A nationally respected writer, author, educator and inspirational speaker, Ruth brings a timeless message to diverse audiences about the one constant in life - change.

A graduate of the University of Minnesota, Ruth’s vocations and avocations have blossomed into numerous roles, as varied as her vibrant and witty persona. Over the years she has served as a kindergarten teacher, childbirth educator, aerobics instructor, children's choir director, international travel guide and volunteer coordinator. Additionally, over 25 years of public speaking experience for a number of organizations, including the Guthrie Theater in Minneapolis, has honed her comfortable and commanding stage presence. But it was her 2003 encounter with a life changing cancer diagnosis that lead her to the most demanding and rewarding role of her life—that of an advocate for integrative cancer care for patients and role model for managing change with integrity and grace. Today, Ruth travels the world to bring her unique and profound story of hope, and courage in facing all of the changes that life brings, whether in physical health, finances, career or relationships.

Ruth serves as Chair of the Community Advisory Board of the Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, and co-conducts workshops, with well-known author Richard Leider on behalf of the Center for Spirituality and Healing, University of Minnesota. She is a member of the Minnesota Cancer Alliance Steering Committee, a contributor to the MN Cancer Alliance Cancer Support Network and a speaking ambassador for Community Health Charities Minnesota.

Because of her deep sense of gratitude for all of the support and opportunities she has received, Ruth allocates all of her speaking fees as a tax-deductible donation to the Hourglass Fund at the Minnesota Medical Foundation, University of Minnesota.

February 2003

I was a left-handed woman, wife and mother in apparent good health. I ate reasonably well, was physically active, had annual checkups, practiced meditation and yoga, attended church regularly, volunteered in the community and even read to 4 year olds weekly!

There was a soft lump on my left wrist that I tried to ignore, hoping that it would go away. In March of that year, I learned that I had soft tissue sarcoma, a rare form of cancer. In June, my left hand and forearm were amputated.

Today

I am a right-handed woman, wife, mother and grandmother in apparent good health. I eat reasonably well, am physically active, have annual checkups, practice meditation and yoga, attend church regularly, volunteer in the community and read to my grandchildren as often as possible.