A message from Lisa Garza!

In my disappointment of Lisa's loss on FNS, I decided to do a little research and find an eMail address for her. Indeed I sound like a bit of a stalker, but I did want her to know how much I enjoyed what she brought to the show.

To my delight she replied. Here is what she had to say:

Daniel,

It is VERY sweet and thoughtful of you to write. This was a huge growth experience for me. I did not pursue the show, I was cast. I accepted because I wanted to share my survival story. I hoped that all my pain and suffering could somehow benefit others by inspiring, as well as, challenging the stereo types people hold on to so deeply. I wanted more than anything to inspire hope in woman and kids, especially, that your past does not have to define your future. You can overcome the greatest odds if you believe and fight for your dreams.

I have a severe learning disability, sensory and anxiety disorder partly as a result of a very traumatic and abusive childhood. I worked very hard to be the woman I am today. I am not the fierce competitor I was edited to appear on the show. I loved, encouraged and helped everyone as much as I could. Because, ultimately, I believe what will be, will be, and helping others doesn't keep me from doing my best. I want to build something great as a means to give more. At the end of my life, all I really want is to rest and know, I saved as many kids as I could with the time I had on this earth.

What the judges and "anti" Lisa bloggers, read as uptight, rigid or even snobby, is actually just remnants of a wall I had to build to survive. It is also me trying to do my very best, without the aid of medication. I know I need to work on "reading" warmer on camera, even when I'm stressed, tired, anxious or challenged. I just go into "get it done" mode. My disorder takes over and I get sensory overload. I was trying my best not to show it.

I learned a lot about myself, the world. how much it hurts to be misrepresented and most of all judged. It has made me more sensitive, driven and compassionate. My heart was in the right place and I know my hard work will pay off. I wish my WHOLE personality had been revealed on the show. But, I guess its better TV if I'm just a shallow mini Martha with no real message.

So, thanks again for the pep talk. I love my life. I am VERY blessed and that's all I need. My work will go on with or without the Food Network. Please feel free to join the NFNS facebook fan page or my personal page.

Lisa