Born in Moscow, Russia as Anya Checinska; oldest of two.

First grade, first day of school – teacher picks me to ring the first day bell because I was "the lightest" child.

My sister Katya joins the family.

My family moves to America, to the Bronx, NY.

My first business trip! Heading to the airport with my dad.

Summer internship in Manhattan.

Graduate Rutgers College, with Accounting degree.

Started my professional journey in Manhattan, as a staff auditor at Deloitte; photo from training session (and early leadership inklings).

Marry Wayne near San Diego Courthouse, weeks after moving there for grad school (Oct. 12).

Head to Los Angeles, with MBA in hand, for a leadership role at the iconic Capitol Records building.

Soaking up motherhood with my two boys.

First day of operations at Crowe PR, an integrated PR firm I started out of a coffee shop; blank canvas.

Launch of the debut book “Get Real. The Power of Genuine Leadership, a Transparent Culture, and an Authentic You.”

Get diagnosed with stage 2 thyroid cancer two months after book launch; recovering beachside after surgery.

Receive SDBJ woman of the year award.

Early tests show a 5 cm cancerour tumor in m y breast; photo before 3 surgeries and treatments.

Named to San Diego’s list of Most Influential People.

First of several tennis matches and conversations with Sir Richard Branson on Necker Island.

Crowe PR listed on Inc. 5000 for the third consecutive year.

Embracing life as first female president of the San Diego Chapter of the Global Entrepreneurs Organization.