When I first chose to call myself “The Bougie Missionary,” I knew it would spark some curiosity. The word bougie may seem out of place in the world of missions. But, let me explain. In French, the word “bougie” means “candle.” A candle is meant to shine light into the darkness. This is the essence of my calling as a missionary: to be a beacon of light, shining the love and hope of Jesus wherever I go. And as I journey through life, I strive to do this with style and grace—living a life that reflects both my faith and my love for beauty, balance, and wellness.

I didn’t always know that my life would take the path of a missionary. Born prematurely on June 5, 1971, I faced immense challenges right from the start. My mother contracted a rare flu virus in her first trimester, which caused me to be born with several medical conditions. The doctors told my parents that if I survived, I would likely be deaf, mentally impaired, and physically disabled. They suggested that I might be better off institutionalized.

But my parents, both strong believers, refused to accept that outcome. They prayed fervently, trusting that God would heal me and give them wisdom. And that’s exactly what happened. Eighteen months later, I underwent another surgery—over fifty years later – and over 17 cumulative operations and procedures to date, I am here, telling my story as a testament to God’s grace. Through it all, my parents’ unwavering faith laid the foundation for my own spiritual journey. I accepted Christ as my Savior at the tender age of four, and His love has always been the light guiding me through difficult times.

Growing up, I was in and out of hospitals, battling a heart condition and a weak immune system. But through every struggle, I was reminded of God’s mercy and that He had a special plan for my life. This continued to fuel my desire to live boldly and with purpose.

When I entered college, doctors told me I would never be able to have children, but God had other plans. Memorial Day 1991, I met my future husband in the most unexpected of places: a theme park. By the fall of 1992, we were officially dating, and five years later, we were married. After much prayer and consideration, we felt called to become missionaries, leaving our lives in Florida behind and heading to the Amazon in 1997. It was there, at the start of our mission journey, that I learned I was pregnant, against all odds. That moment was a reminder that “nothing is impossible with God.”

Our first year in Brazil marked the beginning of a long and fulfilling career in missions, and it eventually led us to the southern tip of Africa, where we continue to serve today. As “The Bougie Missionary,” I embrace the calling to be a light in dark places, while living a life of purpose, beauty, and grace. I believe that you can live boldly in your faith, express your love for beauty and wellness, and still shine that light wherever you go. It’s all about finding balance—and I’m here to show you how to do just that.

So, whether you’re looking for inspiration for your own life, seeking wellness tips, or want to know how to add a little bit of style and grace to your journey, I’m here to share it all with you. This is my story, and I’m excited to walk this path with you as “The Bougie Missionary.”