Debbie is Matty's mom. She grew up fifth of seven children in Chicago.  She works 2 days a week as a comprehensive ophthalmologist in Boston.

Debbie is dedicated to educating medical professionals about the prevalence of child abuse and shaken impact syndrome in all socio-economic groups. She has spoken at the American Academy of Opthalmology midyear forum to enhance educational materials on shaken impact syndrome. She has shared her experiences at numerous conferences including the national conferences on shaken baby syndrome. She also selectively interviews with general media to prevent shaken impact syndrome through public education.

 Debbie recognizes the impact of shaken impact syndrome on the entire family, including siblings.  She has testified at legislative hearings on shaken impact syndrome.  She identifies with victim rights issues and has spoken at the victim rights conference in Boston. She has encouraged organ donation in homicide victims.  She has run the Boston Marathon twice to raise money for the foundation.