Katerina Gmitter (co-founder) is a young breast cancer survivor. She was diagnosed at 32, as a young mother to two children aged 2.5 and 4 months. She knows firsthand the value of a respite, having a break from cancer and family obligations to focus on self care. She utilized many programs and services offered to cancer survivors. As she states, “It was the beginning of my healing. I had space to breathe and just be. One night away from the reality of cancer, my side effects and my family obligations allowed me to rest and focus on me.” She has learned that healing is not linear, and her healing was built upon connection with other survivors, simple moments with family and friends, and healing through food, art, therapy, movement, being in nature, and time.

Katerina has worked with several nonprofit organizations supporting women through breast cancer through advocacy, fundraising, program creation and support. She co-facilitates a young breast cancer support group through Young Survival Coalition and UNC Lineberger Cancer Support Center.

Healing Pines Respite is a way to turn her wounds into medicine and to honor her mother, Lorraine, who passed away from metastatic breast cancer when Katerina was 20. Her mission is to help women on their own healing journey through respites, nature, connection, and self-care.

Jessica Murley (co-founder) is a social worker who has experience in the nonprofit world, K-12 school settings, and private practice. She believes that when people truly connect-with each other, with nature, with themselves, they become happier, healthier, and more fulfilled. Through her work in mentoring and in the school setting, she saw firsthand how women and girls supporting each other can be life-changing.  

Jessica lost her father Fred to metastatic pancreatic cancer in 2017. Fred was a talented artist, poet, musician, mentor to many, and most importantly an amazing father.  He was a free spirit and lived his life in search of meaning and deep connection. He taught Jessica empathy and the value of doing for others, and through his cancer diagnosis, about hope. 

Healing Pines Respite is a way to honor Fred, and is a culmination of all that Jessica believes in both personally and professionally.  While accompanying Fred to doctor's appointments, chemo, and many hospital stays, Jessica was deeply affected by the realization of just how many people are impacted by cancer. Her goal is to give women the space they need to begin healing through connection, self care, and hope.