Fairy Tale Interrupted (28 page)

When I thought my fairy tale was over, Michele Ammon helped me restart it. I am forever grateful for that, and I look forward to every new adventure with you. You are an incredibly kind and generous person and such a wonderful friend.

When I needed John Kennedy’s voice in my head, I was lucky to have Brian Steel. Thank you for championing this book. YOU are the real sexiest man alive and have encouraged
me to tell my story for so long. Thank you for your loyalty, support, and friendship, and most of all for helping me avoid being harassed.

I am so lucky to have Tricia Viola Woody as my friend. You have been such a force in my life and helped me stand up for myself when I didn’t think I could. Meep.

I have had some of the best times of my life with Joey Valentino. You have helped make me who I am today. You have been my family, and I am so grateful for your encouragement and support. Thank you for sticking by me for all of these years and for contributing so much to my life.

I know I can tell Paul Lekakis anything and never be judged. Mouse, your love and support have meant so much to me. Your honesty, bravery, and creative life have been an inspiration to me in all that I do.

When I’ve needed empathy, support, and someone to really listen, Liz Lalumia has been there for me. You are my dear friend, and you always give it to me straight with or without wine.

I would never have done this book without Jessica Weinstein’s approval. You have been Carolyn Bessette Kennedy’s voice in my head, and your guidance and support have made this story possible. I’m so grateful for our friendship.

I’m looking forward to sharing a bright and hopeful future with my friend Stephanie Mack. Thank you for all you and your family have done for me all these years and for encouraging me to write this book. Oh, and, “Weeeessss, your Mommy called.”

I am so grateful for Scott Schaiberger’s support. You’re almost as sexy as I am, and I cannot think of anyone better to have as a travel companion. We’re getting a facility, Shanique.

Since I was thirteen years old, I’ve had Nancy Olear as my friend. You have been my family, and I treasure all of our memories and look forward to making new ones.

My mentor and friend Nancy Haberman has taught me so much and given me confidence in myself personally and professionally. Your guidance has always led me to do the right thing.

The rack will belong to Nick Mason someday. You make me feel smart and beautiful, and a girl could not ask for more than that.

With gratitude for your guidance, patience, and friendship, Chris Cuomo, you helped me make my story the best it could be. You always make me less sad, and I’m glad you’re in the world. Meet the new boss.

My dear friend and fellow Howard Stern fan, Gary Mason. Thank you for your friendship and for all of your support. Hi, Hiney.

When I had doubts about what I was doing, Gary Ginsberg was supportive and encouraging. Thank you for all of your teasing and for your friendship. You can be my Chief of Staff anytime.

My sisters Anita and Andrea, thank you for helping to raise me. When Mom and Dad couldn’t always take care of me, you stepped in and helped make me the person I am today.

I’m grateful for the love and support of Barbara Giordano (Mrs. G) and Donna Giordano. Thank you for giving me the gift of Frank and for taking me in as part of your family.

With respect and admiration for Franklin Baez. You have challenged and enhanced my body, mind, and soul.

My
George
alum and my friend, Jeff Sklar. You are a wartime consigliere.

To my
George
comrades who helped make my story possible and for all of the good times we’ve shared: Negi Darsses, Matthew Cowen, Biz Mitchell, Sudie Redmond, Carl Robbins, Sasha Issenberg, Sean Neary, and Michael Berman.

Thank you to Robin Chambers, who has always been the voice of reason.

I have to acknowledge the fierce and fantastic women in my life: Shannon Malone, Katy Hawley, Natalie Hodan, Brooke Schaiberger, Kirby Schmitz, Hillary Rivman, Deb Elko, Erica Salvatore, Robin Renzi, Jenny Schmitz, Susannah Cahalan, and Laura Fink.

For encouraging me to tell my story for so long and for being the best crooner ever, thank you to Steven Santagati.

Thank you to Steve Friedman, A.J. Benza, Gary Dell’Abate, Ron Wilde, J.D. Shapiro, Dr. Stephen Nicholas, and Eric Hyman.