Inspiring Woman

Frances Thorsen

Frances Thorsen has inspired me constantly, daily and always.

The one word that describes her is outrageously giving.

Nominated by: Marlen

Heidi Markow

Heidi Markow

My mom has inspired me through her work as an educator on intimate partner violence. Since the murder of my aunt (her sister) through an act of domestic violence my mom started a non-profit in my aunts honor. My mom has inspired me to seek healthy relationships, and to never let anyone control my life. My mom has aready spoken to 10,000 students in just 1 year of the murder. I know she hasn't just inspired me but thousands of others. Her dedication and lifetime pledge to honor her sister has showed me the true value of life and love. Thank you.

Ashley Stecker, proud daughter of Heidi Markow the Founder of Beginning Over Foundation

The one word that describes this leading lady is honorable.

Nominated by: Ashley Stecker

Racquel Turner

Racquel Turner

She convinced me, after four children, that we had more than enough love to adopt more. I was unsure and concerned that I couldn't love an adopted child as much as my four boys. But she prevailed and inspired me to believe that the love they brought into our home would overwhelm me. She was right, of course. Two little girls from Guatemala later, we now have six children and I have two little girls who I love in a way I never knew I could. She inspired me to look past myself and to our family as the source of love. She inspires me everyday with her commitment to the family and to her blog, muthahood.com, which is designed to give her an outlet for her stories, life lessons and ideas, and to raise money for street children in South Africa. Because of her, I know a love I would never have known.

The one word that describes this leading lady: Passionate

Nominated by: Jeff Turner

Kate Ryan

Kate Ryan inspires me in so many ways, I hardly know where to begin. First she is one of those friends you know you can count on NO MATTER WHAT. She'll be truthful and honest if she thinks you are making a mistake and offer a clear perspective from a loving place.

We've known each other over 20 years and I've been inspired and impressed at her ability to stay positive, even when there have been very challenging personal issues. As a real estate agent, her clients are served with the highest care and love her! Her parties are fabulously fun- Martha Stewart reincarnated! Her jewelry is spiritual and beautiful.

How can one person have all these talents and attributes and still have plenty of time to give back to others?

I don't know...but I sure value the friendship you have given me over the years and I know there are many others whom you have touched with your love! Thank you.

 

The words for Kate are Pure Spirit

Nominated by Joeann Fossland

Sue Cartun

Sue Cartun is one of those rare individuals who just makes you feel calm! She is the Chief Operating Officer and Designated Broker for Realty Executives of Southern Arizona ... which means she is responsible for 1200+ agents. Whew! just thinking about that responsibility is daunting, and yet, Sue handles it with patience and expertise that make it look easy.

She has been my friend and mentor for many years and I value her opinion and judgment and often will call when I am dealing with a tough problem or sticky situation. Sue's insight and suggestions are always exactly what I need.

Sue is available to her friends and there for her family as well. She is a great mom to her daughter Danelle, who is an awesome woman in her own right (Apples don't fall far from the tree!)

She is the embodiment of Joseph Campbell's quote "Follow Your Bliss" and she has helped me discover and follow mine! Thank you SUE!!!!

The word that describes Sue best is Generous

Nominated by Joeann Fossland