People always ask me “Why do you help the wolves?” Here is my story…

By the time I was 27, I had undergone 14 surgeries and given birth to my first child. My body was broken, and my spirit was running on fumes. Health issues had begun to pile up, and hopelessness hovered constantly in the background. But one thing kept me going—my child. I was determined to live, to watch them grow up, because I knew the pain of growing up without a mother.

In the middle of all this, I met a woman who handed me something unexpected: a meditation practice for cancer. I had no idea what I was doing. I just followed it step by step, desperate for anything that might help.

That’s when the visions began.

Every time I closed my eyes—whether to meditate or fall asleep—a wolf’s head appeared in my mind’s eye. It was always upside down. It didn’t matter where I was or what time it was… the wolf was there. Persistent. Unyielding. Like a silent guardian trying to get my attention.

I learned that in some Native American teachings, when an animal appears upside down, it means you’re not honoring its medicine. That struck something deep inside me. I became obsessed with “righting” the wolf—to see it appear right side up. I had no idea that this mission would change everything.

Within a year of starting the meditation, I was cancer-free. But the wolf still came—upside down, then gradually, just a nose peeking through the snow. It took three years for the full white wolf to finally appear, right side up. Since then, this magnificent spirit has never left me. The wolf walks with me still, a guide and protector on my earth journey.

This experience shifted the entire trajectory of my life. I found my purpose in healing and helping others on their path. And I made a promise—a vow—to give back to the wolves in this lifetime.

That vow led me to Tonya Littlewolf and Wolf Mountain Sanctuary, where I met Shanta Wanagi, a sacred white wolf who I believe was the spirit guiding me all along. For the last 20 years, I’ve been honored to volunteer and fundraise for this sanctuary. Tonya is an extraordinary soul who has devoted her life to protecting these majestic beings, and it’s a privilege to stand beside her in this sacred work.

The wolf saved my life. Now, I live to return the gift.

Blessing & Love Tina