Since I was a child, I have had an immense love and respect for all animals. I knew my only path in life had to be helping them. After graduating from high school in 1965, my dream was to work at our local zoo. I was disappointed to find they weren't hiring women. I was persistent and worked odd jobs for five years until I became the second woman to be hired. My passion for gorillas began there; I raised seven baby gorillas during my seven years at the Cincinnati Zoo. This is where my journey began. Over the years, I have  taught signed communication to gorillas and an orangutan, and worked in various organizations, including zoos, rescue ranches, sanctuaries, and a wildlife rehabilitation center.

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 The name "Gorilla Girl" came about because I  fell in love with gorillas early in my career. I raised 7 baby gorillas at the Cincinnati Zoo and then went on to work at Standford University in an ape language project as a mom and teacher to a gorilla named Michael. He was the companion to the now famous gorilla Koko. Gorillas were my most cherished animals for 30 years until I worked as a wildlife rehabilitator and fell in love with native wildlife, especially squirrels!

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As someone who has had the privilge of working closely with various animals, I can attest to their incredible intellectual and emotional lives. This insight has inspired me to be their voice through my books and lectures. I hope to also inspire people to learn more about our non-human animal kin and take action to protect them. All animals deserve love, care, and respect.

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