About the Author

I’m from sandy beaches, sunfish sails, and a spot on the bow.
From big family, barbeque, brunswick stew and blue slate patios.
From performances, prep school, sorority songs and Vanderbilt Nursing.
From loving Stuart, four babies, and cross country moves.
I’m from Wisconsin fields, beehives, barns and trail rides.
From neighborhood gatherings, John Deere gators and stargazing.
From time marked as “Before Ann” or “After Ann.”
I’m from Blackhawk Church, Parish Nursing and turning 50.
From houseguests, entertaining and mother/son wedding dances.
Now…I’m back in North Carolina, ya’ll.

 

As healthcare professionals and people of faith, the Knechtles care about healing spiritually as well as physically. Their personal and professional experience gives them a unique perspective and voice to recovering from loss.

Mary Banks grew up in North Carolina, attended Nursing School at Vanderbilt University and practiced pediatric nursing in the ‘80s.  She and Stuart married and moved to Madison, Wisconsin where he trained in Transplant Surgery and then practiced there for almost 20 years. They raised their four children and all sorts of animals on a farm just 20 minutes from the hospital. The hobby farm brought life lessons and entertainment for all the Knechtles.

As the children left the nest, Mary Banks completed Marquette University’s Parish Nurse Course and practiced Parish Nursing at Blackhawk Church in Madison until Stuart was recruited away for work.

The Knechtles live in Hillsborough, NC with their golden retriever, Daisy.  They grow urban fruit trees and vegetables, enjoy hiking, biking and travel.  Most of all, they enjoy time with family and friends.