I received a phone call from my friend, Tonia DeCosmo, informing me that we were picked for a casting for a show called Below Deck. Thirty women would be considered but only seven would be cast . . .

In your darkest moments, it is crucial to remember that there is light at the end of the tunnel.

Marcie Manfredonia and her parents when she was a child

Marcie Manfredonia relaxing just before walking down the runway at Fashion Week .

Walking down the runway during Fashion Week was AMAZING! It just goes to show that dreams do come true.

My dream of breaking into the fashion world seemed far-fetched, however, life had a mysterious way of leading me on an unexpected journey to fulfill my long-lost dream.

The truth is that it doesn't matter where we come from or what our past holds. What truly matters is where we end up and the inner strength we possess. No one can take away what we have inside us.

By embracing the lessons learned and moving forward with a renewed sense of purpose, one can feel truly blessed to be living a life free from the negativity of the past.

Starting a business can be challenging, but it’s so important to find something that excites you and ultimately makes you want to wake up in the morning with force.

The future may be uncertain, but I believe that there are still plenty of wonderful possibilities waiting for you just around the corner.

No matter how difficult things may feel right now, remember that you have the strength within you to move on and create a life that brings joy and fulfillment.

I didn’t realize the impact my father had on me until I took a look at my business, Nationwide Maintenance, and realized it was his spirit and love that led me to where I am today.

It all begins with an idea.

I thought my life was destined to remain filled with pain, anxiety, and a lack of control. Then one day, everything changed.

If you’re walking through a challenging season in your life, take it from me - you are tougher than you look and smarter than you think.