Empowering and encouraging girls, especially to cultivate an interest in the public safety profession, has always been a passion which motivated Sandy Stansell in writing Open the Door. Since the start of her career, she has done whatever she could to change the mindset that these careers are better suited for boys! Sandy has spent numerous hours out in the community speaking to children, parents, and community leaders about her profession and the importance of both girls and boys setting goals toward a career path in public safety. Another motivation for writing this book has been her deep love for her granddaughters and the hopes and dreams she carries in her heart for all three. Sandy hopes that Open the Door will stimulate conversation about the many opportunities that await the reader if she dares to dream. Open the Door isn't about any one career, it's about being unstoppable in pursuit of whatever career or goal the reader chooses.

Sandy enjoys spending time at the lake with her family, especially her seven grandchildren. Writing has been a passion of hers for so many years, but only since her retirement has she been able to pursue and accomplish this dream. Although retired from her career in public safety, she continues to serve as a 9-1-1 Project Manager and Consultant, working on the installation of a new phone system that will enhance 9-1-1 technology for northern Illinois.