Tammy Dishner

Ms. Dishner grew up in a unique family situation because her mother was diagnosed with schizophrenia, paranoia disorder, which made for a rocky childhood. In spite of her family hardships, Ms. Dishner graduated from James Madison University with three degrees: a B.S. in psychology with a special education minor, an M.Ed. in special education and an M.Ed. in educational administration. She taught various groups of students in special education programs for seven years and then served as an educational administrator at both the elementary and secondary levels. Ms. Dishner is a survivor of stage 3B aggressive breast cancer which occurred in 2002. She has had no recurrences of the cancer in the past eight years. However, she suffers from lymphedema, shortness of breath, short-term memory processing issues, anxiety and clinical depression. In addition, Ms. Dishner suffers from post-traumatic stress syndrome due to workplace bullying and harassment due to her sexual orientation. Currently, Ms. Dishner is self-employed as an abstract artist. She has studied art for two and a half years and her work, "One Love" was highlighted in the March issue of GALA magazine. Ms. Dishner is an avid gardener and she also enjoys music and technology. Ms. Dishner is a relentless advocate for LGBT rights and patient's rights. She also believes in the vast untapped energy within ourselves and our limitless universes.