I AM Diana Martin-Gotcher.
And this is my story.
Welcome to my story of transformation, from grief to gratitude, and from poverty to PhD. My journey began with humble, adventurous beginnings: my dad, a former Hells Angel, and my mom, who turned an old school bus into our home for our large family. Despite the profound loss of both parents, siblings, and many loved ones, I found a path from grief to gratitude and discovered a passion for helping others. This is my story.
Humble Beginnings
I was born in San Diego in 1968. My dad, a former Hells Angel, was harsh yet loving and very protective. We moved from state to state many times, and I frequently changed schools and friends during the first several years of my life.
When I was 10 years old, we moved to Northern California and lived in an old school bus that my petite, kind mom transformed into our home. We didn’t have beds, running water, electricity, or any modern conveniences. It was rough, but as a child, I found it adventurous.
Everything changed when my mom passed away...
Everything changed when I was 13 years old. One stormy night in December, my mom’s vehicle swerved over a bluff and into a flooded river. Despite rigorous efforts, her body was not recovered until 18 months later when fishermen found her remains several miles downstream.
The toll of our loss weighed heavily on the family, and from an early age, I knew I wanted to help others overcome adversity and live joyfully.
It was the loss of my family that propelled me forward...
In 1987, just out of high school and just after the birth of our son, my husband passed away. Nine years later, I watched my dad take his last breath as he died of cancer. Despite the overwhelming grief, I persevered to provide the best life I could for my two sons.
Over the following two decades, I lost four siblings, but these challenges only strengthened my determination to help others. I pursued certifications and degrees to support my endeavors, feeling gratitude for all aspects of my life—the good and the bad.
Positive impact is and has always been my mission...
In 2020, I achieved a lifelong goal by earning a PhD in holistic medicine from a non-secular institution. During this period, I published two books, was featured in three magazines, and was a guest speaker for One Woman International.
Additionally, I was one of 10 women selected to participate in a Think and Grow Rich film called "Moms Rising." Though my part in the film is short, it is impactful.
As I continue my journey, my heart is full. I have two amazing sons, their families, and grandchildren, as well as a husband who supports my ventures. My mission is to help others achieve balance and abundance in their lives, and to do so with gratitude in my heart.
