Heather Schultz, 36, was adopted from Korea at four months old by a couple in Long Island, New York. At a young age, Heather lost her mother to a terminal disease and had to survive the rest of her childhood adjusting to a stepmother and stepsisters, who moved into the home she shared with her father. Seeking refuge for her grief, she found support and love from her paternal grandmother. After learning to love and accept herself, she began facing her deep grief and loss and past troubled family relationships. Today, she is an educator, public speaker and healer, who helps others to survive and move past pain and trauma. Heather has written about her life here and here. She has held leadership positions within the adoptee community, including as a board member of Also Known As NYC. 

“One Sweet Day” by Mariah Carey featuring Boyz II Men appears courtesy of Columbia Records.