Heart Partners
A Heart-to-Heart With: REGIS MAHER
How did you become involved with Olivia's House?
I first learned about Olivia's House through my wife, Lisa. Her father had died when she was a little girl and there was no community resource to help her. As a parent, the thoughts of possibly leaving my own children enter my mind. If I were gone, I know there is a place for my children. I recognized right away that Olivia's House is a tremendously important and needed organization.
What is your favorite memory of Olivia's House?
My favorite memory is the very first time I walked in. I had a preconceived notion of what it would be like, and it far surpassed what I was thinking. The warmth of the house, the Memory Bricks in the back garden, the videos I was shown, all touched me deeply. I knew it was a mission that I needed to be connected with.
What wish do you have for the future of Olivia's House?
To grow larger. I hope it will be able to serve even more children and families. I hope it gains the financial resources to continue Leslie's vision for Olivia's House as a regionally and nationally acclaimed center. I hope it garners endowments large enough to secure its future. That's a lot of wishes, and may they all come true!
What is a typical day like for you?
I work out practically every day. Then I go to work and answer about 200 emails and 50 phone calls from departments in New York, Chicago, Philly, and Dallas. I also do a lot of traveling for my work.
Who are your heroes?
Let's see. My Dad is definitely one of my heroes. Ronald Reagan is another, and most recently, Tony Robbins.
What would people be surprised to know about you?
People would probably be surprised to know that I have a couple of life coaches. I cry easily. Oh, and I walked on hot coals!
What can always be found in your refrigerator?
Easy! Miller Lite, Edy's fruit bars, celery and tangerines.
What TV shows do you watch?
My favorite is Entourage. I like to watch the NFL Football games and pregame shows.
What is a perfect vacation for you?
Well, I do love vacations. I can be anywhere where there is sun, sand, family and friends. I think who you are with is more important than where you are.
Being so successful with your career, are there any unfulfilled ambitions of yours?
Yes. I dream of someday having a vineyard and winery.
How would you define success?
That definition has changed for me. I used to define success by the dollar sign. Cars, suits, material things. Now I try to define success by the number of smiles I can put on other faces. I'm realizing that what is important is people, not things, and that success can be reached through finding inner peace and happiness.
What was your proudest accomplishment?
Without a doubt, my son and daughter are my proudest accomplishments.
How do you want to be remembered?
I hope I will be remembered as a person who cared about others, as a good father, and as a person who almost always led with his heart.
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