Cara Buono’s Untold Story: Stranger Things Star, Loving Wife, and Real-Life Advocate

Cara Buono is a captivating force in Hollywood, known for her ability to breathe life into characters that leave a lasting impression. Rising from her working-class roots in The Bronx, New York, Buono’s path to stardom is a remarkable story of resilience, talent, and dedication. Her portrayal of the fiercely protective Karen Wheeler in Netflix’s global sensation Stranger Things cemented her status as a household name, while her compelling role as Kelli Moltisanti in HBO’s critically acclaimed The Sopranos showcased her range in intense dramatic storytelling. With a career that spans indie gems like Chutney Popcorn and Broadway performances, Buono’s artistic versatility continues to captivate audiences worldwide.

Buono’s success isn’t limited to the screen. A determined scholar, she graduated from Columbia University in just three years, earning a double major in English Literature and Political Science while actively performing on Broadway. Off-screen, Buono champions social causes alongside her husband, entrepreneur Peter Thum, founder of Liberty United, a company that turns illegal firearms into jewelry to fund programs supporting at-risk youth. As a devoted mother to her daughter, Esme, Buono balances her powerful career with family life, often sharing heartfelt glimpses of motherhood. From her unforgettable performances to her commitment to making a difference, Cara Buono’s journey is one of talent, determination, and heart.

Early Life and Family

Cara Buono was born on March 1, 1971, in The Bronx, New York, into a blue-collar, working-class family. Her father, Antony Buono, was a military veteran who also worked as a mechanic, while her mother, Rosemary Buono, played a significant role in raising her and her siblings.

Mother’s Influence

According to Buono, her parents were incredibly generous, often giving away what little they had to help others. Rosemary was described by Buono as the epitome of kindness, welcoming friends and strangers alike with big Italian meals and heartfelt prayers that began with “We are the lucky ones,” a reflection of her constant gratitude. If guests admired something in their home, Rosemary would insist they take it — and if they refused, she would simply mail it to them later. Her mother’s generosity and thoughtfulness left a lasting impression on Buono, shaping her own values. Rosemary passed away in late November 2023, and Buono described her as “beautiful in every way.”

Father’s Influence

Her father, whom Buono described as her hero, was a gentleman and a proud veteran. He was remembered by Buono as a private man, humble and kind, yet profoundly generous. He instilled in Buono the importance of service and helping others. “We don’t have much, but we have more than some others,” she recalled him saying, a mindset that grounded her throughout her life. Her father also taught her practical skills like using a power drill and fixing things, reflecting his resourcefulness and dedication to family. He passed away in late July 2021, leaving Buono heartbroken but grateful for his influence.

Protective Upbringing

Buono grew up with two older brothers who were protective of her, which influenced her early social experiences. She once mentioned that while many girls in her neighborhood started dating young, her brothers ensured that no one would ask her out. This overprotectiveness, in a way, contributed to her motivation to pursue acting, as she humorously admitted that she saw it as a way to experience romantic scenes where no one could stop her.

Early Work Ethic

From an early age, Buono exhibited an extraordinary work ethic. She started working at just 11 years old, holding various jobs such as delivering newspapers, working at a video store, and even dressing as a toy doll at FAO Schwarz during high school. This early experience instilled in her a sense of discipline and perseverance, which she later applied to her acting career.

Life in The Bronx

Buono’s childhood was filled with the typical experiences of growing up in The Bronx in the 1980s. She has recalled that, unlike suburban neighborhoods with swimming pools, kids in her area would play under fire hydrants in the summer. The local neighborhood pool had broken glass at the bottom, making swimming unsafe, which ultimately led to her never properly learning how to swim. Growing up in a working-class neighborhood, Buono developed a strong sense of resilience and adaptability. She was surrounded by people who valued hard work and perseverance, qualities that later became essential in her acting career.

Buono has also shared fond memories of her love for the New York Knicks. She recalled how she and her brother would save all their money to attend Knicks games, often sitting in the absolute last row. This cherished experience reflected her family’s modest upbringing and her strong bond with her siblings. Buono’s childhood was filled with the typical experiences of growing up in The Bronx in the 1980s. She has recalled that, unlike suburban neighborhoods with swimming pools, kids in her area would play under fire hydrants in the summer. The local neighborhood pool had broken glass at the bottom, making swimming unsafe, which ultimately led to her never properly learning how to swim. Growing up in a working-class neighborhood, Buono developed a strong sense of resilience and adaptability. She was surrounded by people who valued hard work and perseverance, qualities that later became essential in her acting career.

Reflections on Family and Loss

Buono has reflected on her family’s lasting influence, especially after her parents’ deaths. Following her father’s passing, she shared a quote from Ted Lasso: “There is something worse out there than being sad — and that is being alone and being sad.” Her belief in the importance of connection, compassion, and finding strength in adversity continues to shape her journey both personally and professionally.

Academic Background and Interest in Acting

Buono had a strong interest in science and math however, growing up in a financially struggling household limited her educational opportunities. Feeling unstimulated in school, she sought an outlet and stumbled upon acting. What began as a way to break the monotony of school life soon became a genuine passion.

As a child, Buono would visit a local candy store to purchase Show Business magazine, a precursor to Backstage, in search of audition listings. At just 11, she took a bold step into the industry by sneaking into an audition for Harvey Fierstein’s Off-Broadway play, Spook House.

At the audition, she misunderstood the requirement for Actor’s Equity membership and confidently responded, “I am free, equal!” Turned away for not having an Equity card, she refused to give up. Hiding in the bathroom, she seized the moment to sneak into the audition room. Making an impassioned plea, she insisted that acting was her only escape from a tough environment. Amused by her determination, the casting team decided to give her a shot.

At the callback, she faced another test—a scene required her to roll and smoke a joint, something she had never done before. Improvising, she used loose-leaf paper, unintentionally turning the emotional moment into comedy as the casting team laughed at the oversized roll. Assuming she had failed, she left disappointed, only to later receive a call offering her the understudy role in Spook House.

Buono’s family, while supportive, was not actively involved in her acting pursuits. Since she was a minor when she landed her first role, her older brother had to step in to sign the contract for her. She had to figure out the industry largely on her own, balancing auditions with her education and part-time jobs.

Buono’s relentless pursuit of acting led her to attend LaGuardia High School of the Arts, a prestigious school known for its strong performing arts program. Her time at LaGuardia solidified her love for acting, and she became actively involved in readings and plays, setting the stage for her professional career.

Following high school, Buono attended Columbia University, where she pursued a double major in English Literature and Political Science. While attending Columbia, Buono continued acting on Broadway, managing to balance her demanding academic schedule with her performances. Her ability to maintain both pursuits reflected her dedication and determination. She successfully graduated from Columbia University in 1993 at the age of 22, completing her degree in just three years.

Early Career Struggles: Learning the Industry From the Ground Up

Cara Buono’s journey into the entertainment world was driven by determination and hands-on experience rather than industry connections. Growing up in The Bronx, New York, she faced challenges that tested her resilience. Despite growing up in a diverse environment, Buono was often teased for her strong Bronx accent, a speech impediment, and a lisp. It wasn’t until she began auditioning that she realized how pronounced her accent was. Determined to succeed, she worked hard to refine her speech by closely studying actors and individuals she believed spoke well. Over time, she mastered a neutral accent for her roles, though she can still confidently revert to her Bronx inflection when needed.

Her dedication extended beyond acting alone. Early in her career, Buono actively immersed herself in various aspects of filmmaking. She took on minor roles, worked as an extra, and engaged in behind-the-scenes work. Reflecting on this period, Buono recalled doing “a ton of theater” in New York City while taking on various roles, including wrapping cables on set and working as a background extra. These experiences provided her with invaluable insights into the inner workings of the industry, shaping her well-rounded understanding of film and television production.

Her early film appearances included Gladiator (1992) (not to be confused with the later Russell Crowe film), Waterland (1992), and Kicking and Screaming (1995), directed by Noah Baumbach. She also juggled various jobs in between acting gigs, gaining a firsthand look at the industry’s demands.

In 1999, she appeared in the indie film Chutney Popcorn, where she played Janis, the supportive girlfriend of Nisha Ganatra’s character. The film explored themes of family, identity, and LGBTQ+ relationships. Buono’s performance was well-received, and the project marked an important step in her film career, showcasing her ability to portray emotionally grounded and authentic characters.

Reflecting on her role in Chutney Popcorn, Buono described it as one of her favorite projects. In May 2021, she celebrated its screening as part of New York’s Queering the Canon BIPOC New York event and encouraged fans to revisit the film. Recalling her experience on set, she humorously mentioned her UPS uniform from the film, adding that she loved it so much she kept it. During the screening, she also participated in a Q&A alongside director Nisha Ganatra, Jill Hennessy, and Sakina Jaffrey.

Television Breakthrough: From Guest Roles to The Sopranos

Cara began appearing in television roles in the late 1980s and early 1990s, with guest spots on shows like Dream Street (1989), Law & Order, and Third Watch.

Her television breakthrough came in 2006 when she was cast in the final season of The Sopranos, playing Kelli Moltisanti, the wife of wiseguy Christopher Moltisanti. This role further elevated her profile and allowed her to demonstrate her versatility in one of television’s most iconic crime dramas.

The journey to landing this role was memorable — and not without difficulty. At the time, she was going through a tough period in her life. Recalling that moment, Cara shared that she had just ended a long-term relationship, and on her way home from the audition, a group of kids stepped on ketchup packets on the train platform, splattering her with ketchup. Reflecting on that chaotic moment, she thought to herself, “Something’s got to give.”

Despite the struggles, the moment she got the role was unforgettable. She vividly recalled receiving the call from her agent while in her small studio apartment and falling to the floor upon hearing the news.

“I remember getting the job… I was in my little studio apartment, and I fell down on the floor crying.”

The excitement and pressure of joining such an iconic series left her sleepless the night before filming. However, when she arrived on set, she was met with immediate warmth from the cast. “Literally everyone said, ‘Welcome to the family’ like a big Italian family,” she recalled. Edie Falco embraced her, and Michael Imperioli assured her that if she ever needed anything, she could always come to him.

Playing Kelli Moltisanti was an emotional milestone in her career. Cara recognized the show’s cultural significance, calling it a “watershed show” that reshaped television storytelling. This pivotal role not only allowed her to showcase her talent in a powerful way but also paved the way for more high-profile television projects, solidifying her presence in the industry.

Film Career: Working Alongside Hollywood’s Finest

Cara has worked in both independent films and major Hollywood productions. Some of her notable film credits include:

• “Waterland” (1992) – A drama starring Jeremy Irons.
• “Next Stop Wonderland” (1998) – An indie romantic comedy.
• “Hulk” (2003) – Playing Edith Banner in Ang Lee’s adaptation of the Marvel character.
• “Let Me In” (2010) – A horror film where she played Owen’s mother.

She has spoken about balancing roles between big-budget films and indie projects, always prioritizing strong storytelling over commercial appeal.

Mad Men (2010)

Cara Buono portrayed Faye Miller in Season 4 of AMC’s Mad Men. Introduced in the episode “Christmas Comes But Once a Year”, Faye was a market research consultant at Sterling Cooper Draper Pryce, specializing in consumer psychology. Her character played a key role in helping the agency craft advertising strategies using research-driven insights — a method that reflected the evolving landscape of marketing in the 1960s.

Faye’s character stood out as an ambitious, career-focused woman navigating a predominantly male industry. Her relationship with Don Draper (Jon Hamm) became a central emotional arc. While Faye connected with Don on a deeper, intellectual level, their relationship ended when Don chose Megan Calvet, underscoring Don’s tendency to seek emotional comfort over meaningful connections.

In a 2022 interview on The Steve Varley Show, Buono reflected on her time in Mad Men, describing it as one of her most cherished roles. She recalled being a huge fan of the show before joining the cast and remembered feeling overwhelmed with excitement when she received the offer.

Buono’s performance earned her a Primetime Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Guest Actress in a Drama Series. While her arc concluded in the episode “Tomorrowland”, her portrayal of Faye Miller remains memorable for its depth, emotional complexity, and its reflection of the changing role of women in the workplace during that era.

Stranger Things: Bringing Karen Wheeler to Life

In 2015, Cara Buono joined the cast of Netflix’s Stranger Things, taking on the role of Karen Wheeler, the mother of Mike, Nancy, and Holly Wheeler. The series premiered on July 15, 2016, and Buono’s portrayal of Karen became one of her most recognizable and memorable roles.

Buono’s performance brings depth and nuance to a character who could have easily been reduced to a typical 1980s suburban mother. Instead, her portrayal of Karen as a loving yet somewhat unaware parent with her own quiet struggles adds realism to the show’s emotionally charged narrative.

How Cara Buono Landed the Role of Karen Wheeler

Cara Buono’s journey to playing Karen Wheeler in Stranger Things was anything but ordinary. In a past interview, she revealed that she discovered the casting opportunity through a trade paper and, driven by her belief in the project, she decided to sneak into the audition.

Reflecting on her first impression of the script, Buono stated:

“When I first read the script, I knew I wanted to be part of the show. I thought we’d at least get two seasons out of it. No one could have predicted the phenomenon it’s become.”

Her dedication didn’t stop there. After her audition, Buono personally approached the Duffer Brothers to express her enthusiasm for the show, ultimately securing the role of Karen Wheeler.

Key Moments of Karen Wheeler in Stranger Things

1. The Billy Hargrove Storyline (Season 2 & 3)

One of the standout arcs for Karen Wheeler was her flirtation with Billy Hargrove (Dacre Montgomery) in Season 2. Buono described these scenes as:

“A comedic element but also one with underlying tension and absurdity.”

She praised Dacre Montgomery’s performance, calling it “fun to play.” Buono also believed that Karen’s emotional response to Billy’s death in Season 3 could have provided added depth to her character:

“A scene of Karen alone in the kitchen, grieving or reflecting, would have added emotional weight.”

2. The Wheeler Family Dynamic (Season 1 & Beyond)

Buono has openly discussed Karen’s parenting struggles, particularly her relationship with her youngest daughter, Holly:

“Holly hasn’t given her any trouble yet.”

This contrast emphasizes Karen’s role as a mother trying to balance her domestic life with the unfolding supernatural chaos in Hawkins.

3. Karen Wheeler as a Classic 1980s Mother

As a character designed to embody the classic ’80s suburban mom, Karen’s life revolves around her family, yet she quietly longs for something beyond her domestic role. Buono’s portrayal ensures Karen is more than just a typical parental figure, adding emotional layers that enrich the show’s narrative.

Cara Buono’s Relationships with the Cast

Buono has often reflected on her positive experiences working with the cast:

• Finn Wolfhard (Mike Wheeler): Buono described Wolfhard as “so talented and sweet,” even joking that he had grown much taller than her over the course of the series.

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• Natalia Dyer (Nancy Wheeler): Buono praised Dyer’s performance, identifying with Nancy’s struggles for independence and calling her storyline “relatable and heartfelt.”
• Dacre Montgomery (Billy Hargrove): Buono appreciated Montgomery’s intense and comedic presence, recalling how the crew often struggled to hold back laughter during their scenes together.

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Emotional Themes in Stranger Things

Cara Buono has consistently praised the show’s emotional depth. She found the growing distance between Will and Mike particularly touching, calling it:

“Heartbreaking to watch them grow apart.”

Buono was especially moved by Hopper’s emotional letter to Eleven in Season 3, describing it as:

“A beautiful scene that showcases the depth of the show.”

She also believed Karen Wheeler could have played a maternal role for Max (Sadie Sink), suggesting:

“Karen could have been a good mom to her.”

Cara Buono’s Return and Reflections on Stranger Things

On January 24, 2024, Buono shared her excitement about returning to the set for Stranger Things Season 5. She revealed that her first day back involved filming a scene from Episode 2:

“Yesterday was Cara Buono’s first day back on the set of Stranger Things 5. She was working on a scene from episode 2, where Karen gets to… 🤯”

Expressing her love for her character, Buono added:

“GUYS! I ❤️ Karen Wheeler and I am SO excited! I hope she has a bigger role this season and finally learns the truth! 🙃”

On January 24, 2024, Buono shared her excitement about returning to the set for Stranger Things Season 5. She revealed that her first day back involved filming a scene from Episode 2:

“Yesterday was Cara Buono’s first day back on the set of Stranger Things 5. She was working on a scene from episode 2, where Karen gets to… 🤯”

Expressing her love for her character, Buono added:

“GUYS! I ❤️ Karen Wheeler and I am SO excited! I hope she has a bigger role this season and finally learns the truth! 🙃”

On July 15, 2024, Buono reflected on the emotional depth and dedication that goes into the series, describing the experience as:

“Halfway there. The emotions are real. The love and dedication behind the scenes are unparalleled.” Grateful for her role, she expressed being “honored to be part of this incredible story.”

Farewell to Stranger Things

In July 2022, Buono reflected on her Stranger Things journey after completing her role in Season 4. On Instagram, she wrote:

“4, 3, 2, 1… At the end of every season of Stranger Things, I’d always take a photo with the Duffer Brothers on my last day. From my first day on set back in 2015 to my last day on Season 4, it was never lost on me how incredibly special this show is.”

On December 20, 2024, Buono shared a heartfelt farewell message as her journey with Stranger Things came to an end:

“That’s a wrap on Stranger Things. What started as a small adventure became a decade-long journey I’ll never forget. This isn’t just goodbye to a show—it’s a farewell to a family and a lifetime of unforgettable memories.”

The Girl from Plainville (2022)

Cara Buono joined the cast of The Girl from Plainville in August 2021, taking on the role of Gail Carter, Michelle’s mother. In an interview with Cinema Daily US, Buono revealed that her character was largely fictionalized since Gail Carter had not given any interviews or provided public insights. Buono explained that the creative team built Gail’s character around what they imagined she might have experienced, describing her as a mother who “really tried” to help her daughter with mental health issues but ultimately “kind of fails” when she gets close enough. Buono noted that Gail seemed more concerned with her public image in the community, which influenced her portrayal.

Buono praised her co-star Elle Fanning, calling her “the perfect leading lady” and admiring her ability to “completely transform” into her character. She described Fanning as “incredibly prepared” and “absolutely amazing,” adding that Fanning’s dedication to the role was remarkable.

Reflecting on the show’s format, Buono compared working on the limited series to “shooting a very long movie.” While she enjoys the evolving nature of longer series, she acknowledged the unique storytelling style of a limited series. Buono expressed hope that fans of Stranger Things and Mad Men would watch The Girl from Plainville and engage in important conversations about mental health, suicide, and texting responsibility.

The first three episodes of The Girl from Plainville premiered on Hulu on March 29, 2022.

More Television and Film Projects

Cara Buono has continued to build an impressive career across television and film with diverse and impactful roles. In July 2022, she celebrated the talented hair and makeup teams from Stranger Things on their Emmy nominations, expressing her gratitude for their role in helping her transform into Karen Wheeler. Her journey with the series concluded in December 2024, when Buono reflected on her time with the show as a “decade-long journey” filled with “a lifetime of unforgettable memories.”

In March 2023, Buono encouraged her followers to “run, don’t walk” to see Sweeney Todd on Broadway, praising Gaten Matarazzo for his performance as Tobias, calling him “absolutely incredible – indelible.” She shared how her daughter was “breathtakingly amazed” after meeting cast members Jordan Fisher and Annaleigh Ashford following the show.

In February 2023, Buono starred in the horror film She Came from the Woods, portraying Heather McCalister. The movie, set in the 1980s, follows camp counselors who accidentally unleash a decades-old evil on the last night of summer camp. The film received positive reviews for its nostalgic homage to classic slasher films.

Buono took on the role of Debra Robinson in the television film The Girl Who Escaped: The Kara Robinson Story in March 2023. The film is based on the true story of Kara Robinson, who was abducted but managed to escape and lead authorities to her captor, highlighting themes of resilience and courage.

In November 2024, Buono appeared in her sixth episode of Law & Order, marking her third time playing a killer on the series. Reflecting on the experience, she shared how she enjoyed working with some “lovely ladies” on set, reinforcing her continued presence in crime dramas.

Buono also starred as Holly Ayker in the drama film In Fidelity. The story follows a married couple testing the boundaries of their relationship, exploring themes of love, trust, and fidelity. The film premiered in Los Angeles on November 4, 2024, and was released on VOD on November 5, 2024.

Buono took on a pivotal role in the film Queen of the Ring, which tells the story of the first-ever million-dollar female athlete and champion pro-wrestler who defied societal norms during a time when all-girl wrestling was banned in much of America. Buono shared her excitement about the project on Instagram in October 2024, describing her pride in being part of a story that celebrates resilience and triumph. The film was released in March 2025, further showcasing Buono’s range and dedication to impactful storytelling.

Advocacy and Charitable Work

Buono’s dedication to charitable work is evident in her involvement with ADAPT. Since 2011, she has actively supported the organization, serving as an Honorary Co-Chair for the ADAPT Leadership Awards in March 2022 and again in February 2024. ADAPT’s mission to support over 20,000 individuals, especially children ages 3-5, resonated deeply with her. She described the organization’s work as “very dear to my heart,” praising their inclusive learning environments and early intervention programs that foster opportunity and growth.

In addition to ADAPT, Buono has been a vocal supporter of Liberty United, an initiative co-founded by her husband Peter Thum. Since 2012, Liberty United has partnered with law enforcement to transform illegal guns into jewelry, pens, and accessories. Each piece bears the serial number of a destroyed firearm, with proceeds funding programs to help at-risk youth in communities affected by gun violence. In March 2018, Buono participated in the March for Our Lives rally with her daughter, who believed “guns are what daddy uses to make jewelry” because of Liberty United’s mission. Buono shared her pride in her daughter, who carried a pride flag during the march and understood that “we can get the people who make the laws to change them.”

Buono’s advocacy work extends to health awareness. In February 2023, she supported the American Heart Association, urging her followers to learn “hands-on-only CPR” to help save lives.

Since college, Buono has volunteered as a rape crisis advocate with The Crime Victims Treatment Center in NYC, describing her role as “incredible and vital.” In January 2021, she revealed that she had been vaccinated against COVID-19, qualifying due to her service as an Emergency Room volunteer. Reflecting on her upbringing, she credited her parents for raising her “to always find ways to help others and to give back.”

Personal Life

A Loving Marriage and Motherhood Journey

Cara Buono married Peter Thum on July 11, 2009. Peter Thum is a social entrepreneur best known for founding Ethos Water, a bottled water company that helps provide clean water to communities in need. He has also worked on various social impact initiatives focused on improving global access to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene.

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The couple celebrated their 10th wedding anniversary in Italy in 2019. Reflecting on the milestone a year later, Cara shared a heartfelt post featuring a photo from their wedding day, writing,

“Happy Anniversary to my love… Looking forward to our 12th without masks and in the world again.”

Her words reflected both her affection for her husband and her hope for better times post-pandemic.

Cara and Peter share a daughter named Esme, born October 18, 2012. While Cara keeps much of her family life private, she occasionally shares special moments. On Esme’s birthday in October 2021, Cara described her as her “spirited girl”, adding that her first word was “no”, which she’s confidently “used… every day since.” In a sweet reflection, she called Esme “the best part of me.”

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On Cara’s own birthday in March 2020, she posted a tender moment with Esme kissing her on the forehead, writing, “Not a baby anymore but will always be to me.” She expressed gratitude for life’s blessings, describing each day as “another chance to make a difference” and to “find something to be grateful for,” even if it’s as simple as “being able to breathe.”

Cara’s heartfelt reflections reveal her deep love for her family, her enduring bond with her daughter, and her positive outlook on life.

Personal Insights and Reflections

Buono’s travels have been a source of inspiration. In December 2023, she reflected on a brief yet memorable visit to Spain in October 2023, remarking that her time there “was not enough” and expressing her desire to return.

In July 2024, Buono shared a serene moment from her travels, captioning her post: “Finding peace where the mountains meet the water” alongside a photo of herself in a bikini with a stunning mountain backdrop. The post reflected her appreciation for natural beauty and moments of calm.

In April 2022, she expressed gratitude for her visit to Prague, describing the city’s rich history and beauty. Similarly, in September 2022, she posted a heartfelt tribute to Sicily, writing “Sicily, you live in my heart.”

In January 2023, Buono visited Montenegro, describing it as “a beautiful country” with warm hospitality. In March 2023, she shared selfies from Aberdeen, Scotland, describing the locals as “lovely, gracious people” and humorously adding that she “will keep giving haggis a chance.”

Personal Growth

In June 2023, Buono humorously revealed that she started getting grey hair in college, embracing the aging process with positivity.

In December 2021, Buono shared her excitement after learning to ski for the first time, marking it as a memorable milestone.

Her passion for wildlife conservation was evident in November 2021, when she participated in a Big Cat Conservation awareness event, reflecting her commitment to environmental causes.

Inspiring Messages and Reflections

Buono frequently shares motivational messages with her followers. In her New Year’s message for 2023, she posted an inspiring quote by F. Scott Fitzgerald: “For what it’s worth: it’s never too late to be whoever you want to be… I hope you live a life you’re proud of.” Her message concluded with her hope that others would “see things that startle you… in the best way.”

References:

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