Joanne was born and raised in Edison, New Jersey to an Italian, Catholic family of eight. She studied creative writing in high school and began writing in the late 1970's. After graduating high school, she suffered a serious head injury in a car accident. After waking from a five day coma, she was oblivious to her cognitive disabilities and stepped right back into her life. She entered poetry contests and won honorable mentions however, battling confusion and uncertainty had become customary. She traveled a road that lead her to addiction where making bad choices was common place. Rehab, in 2005, lead her to an exceptional12 step program where she became a member and to this day, credits them with her success. It was in this program that she became the most inspired. She learned to think of others. Her journey resulted in the culmination of inspirationsmeant to help others, in particular, the still sick and suffering addict. She wants them to know they are not alone and that there is hope.

Joanne has two son's and resides in New Jersey, finally happy and serene.