Once upon a time, in the suburbs of Norwood Park, Chicago, there was a little girl with pigtails who had big dreams of becoming a professional dancer. She imagined herself on stage, taking a bow with a bouquet of flowers in her hand, after a beautiful ballet performance. But this girl’s journey to her dreams was far from ordinary.

Growing up, she was not your typical little girl. She was a bit of a tomboy, always playing outside, climbing trees, and even excelling as a speed skater. She had an older brother who had different interests, but that didn’t stop her from pursuing her passion for dance.

At the age of five, this young ballerina started taking dance classes, and it became clear to her dance teacher that she had a talent for more than just ballet. Her teacher told her that she had the “acting bug” and that she wouldn’t just be a ballet dancer. Although she initially resisted the idea, she soon realized that her teacher was right.

Her journey led her to New York City, where she landed a part in a touring company of “My Fair Lady” at the age of 19. This was just the beginning of her rocky path to stardom. She had her first acting credit in Neil Simon’s debut play, “Come Blow Your Horn,” and from there, she embarked on a career in both acting and dancing.

Along the way, she faced many challenges and obstacles. Her parents had certain expectations for her, but she refused to internalize their values. She also experienced discrimination when her mother disowned her for dating a Jewish boy. But these experiences only made her stronger and more determined to follow her own path.

She fought for opportunities and landed roles in the entertainment industry, including appearances in daytime soaps and primetime shows. In 1972, she even portrayed one of the first lesbian characters on TV in “The Bold Ones: The New Doctors.” Her talent and hard work caught the attention of Hollywood stars like Burt Reynolds and Clint Eastwood, who recommended her for various projects.

But her journey didn’t stop there. She also took on the role of an independent single mom. Despite the challenges of balancing motherhood and a demanding career, she found a way to make it work. Her home with her longtime partner had a few offbeat attractions and finishes, which made it unique and special.

This actress’s story is a reminder that dreams can come true with determination, hard work, and staying true to oneself. She didn’t let societal expectations or discrimination hold her back. Instead, she carved her own path and became a successful dancer, actress, and independent single mom.

So, next time you think your dreams are out of reach, remember this inspiring ballerina who defied the odds and made her dreams a reality.