Leslie joins DHP as our Program Coordinator. Born and raised in the mountains of Asheville,Leslie always felt deeply connected to the outdoors.

In 2008, she became a breast cancer survivor—a moment that taught her resilience and the value of living fully. In 2015, she suffered a spinal burst fracture with partial paralysis, a life-altering event that marked the beginning of her commitment to a healthier, more intentional lifestyle. Through clean eating, hiking, and mindfulness,  she lost over 50 pounds and rediscovered my passion for the outdoors.

One of the most meaningful parts of her journey has been her involvement with the Make-A-Wish Trailblaze Challenge, a 28.3-mile hike in one day to raise funds for critically ill children. Leslie currently organizes and leads training hikes in Western North Carolina, assists as a trail sweep during the challenge, and finds immense joy in empowering others to accomplish what once seemed impossible.

Backpacking has also become a significant part of her life. From weekend adventures to long-distance hikes, she completed the 273-mile Vermont Long Trail and sections of the Appalachian Trail, including: The Smoky Mountains, Spring Mountain to Fontana, Fontana to Hot Springs, Uncle Johnny’s in Erwin, TN, to Yellow Mountain, Grayson Highlands in Virginia

Leslie holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of North Carolina Asheville, and her journey has been shaped by profound challenges and transformative experiences.

Leslie is channeling her passion for health and wellness into a new chapter. She is currently working toward certification in personal training and nutrition, with the goal of helping others transform their lives and embrace the healing power of movement, nature, and self-care.

Mary Wortas is the Executive Director of Dogwood Healing Pathways, she is also a Life Coach and Spiritual Director at marywortascoaching where she helps individuals uncover their strength and embrace their unique paths to growth and authenticity. A third of proceeds go to support scholarship opportunities at DHP.

Growing up in the Shawangunk Mountains of New York, Mary developed a deep connection to nature from an early age, surrounded by hiking trails near her home. Mary’s journey led her to Asheville, North Carolina, where she played Division 1 volleyball and softball while attending the University of North Carolina Asheville. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from UNCA and later obtained a Master’s degree in Human Resources from Western Carolina University.

After a difficult period in her life, Mary turned to the trails as a place of healing. She believes that nature has the ability to hold your pain, and challenge you all while surrounded by natural beauty. Mary rediscovered her sense of purpose and built resilience and personal growth. The trail challenges you to persevere and trust yourself. This lifelong love for the outdoors inspired her commitment to holistic healing and wellness, forming the foundation for Dogwood Healing Pathways.

Mary combines her academic background, personal experiences, and love of nature to create a compassionate space for healing. Whether guiding individuals through life’s transitions or helping them reconnect with the grounding energy of the natural world, Mary’s mission remains the same: to empower others to find wholeness, healing and become their most authentic selves.