Our Story

Following a few of my family role models, I started a career in Law Enforcement in Juneau Alaska. After several years, I moved our family to Marysville, Washington where I continued my LE career. 20 years later I found myself in PTSD crisis from the accumulation of many traumatic events. With the help of intensive therapy at Deer Hollow, support from family, support of true friends, on going therapies and most importantly the support of my wife, I have come out the other side in pretty good shape. PTSD caused the early end of my career but I won’t let it beat me. 

A friend introduced me to wood carving in late 2022 and I found carving to be a good therapy for me while providing some sense of accomplishment. In early 2023 my 25 year old nephew, Calin, tragically took his own life. I remembered a fellow brother in blue who had lost a young daughter in a tragic accident. As part of my friend’s family grieving process, they started collecting hearts of all kinds. I decided to carve a heart shaped bowl and four small hearts that were similar to “worry stones” and give them to my sister and her immediate family. The carvings were well received and I started getting requests for more of them. I carved more of them and called them “Never Alone Hearts.” I started to give these hearts out to others that suffered mental health setbacks from traumatic events. I continue to carve Never Alone Hearts along with other items intended to be given away in support of mental health, faith and healing.

Through the process of recovery I have learned a lot and try to incorporate what I learn into my life. I strive to not judge others who are recovering from trauma. Trauma can come in many forms and we all deal with or don’t deal with trauma in different ways. My trauma is no worse than your trauma and your trauma is no worse than mine. The most important thing is to know that there are many others suffering just like you, so you are NOT alone. It takes courage to step forward raising your hand to ask for help. I’m proud of each and everyone of you who realize your need and reach out for the help!

We have started this website in an effort to pay it forward. We give carvings at no cost. If you would like to help with the associated costs of this endeavor, you are welcome to donate.