After losing her husband to accidental overdose involving opioids, Cheryl Canzanella created Coastal Life Strategies to share his journey through active addiction, road to recovery and his final battle lost to overdose. By exposing the horrific realities of the opioid epidemic, her mission is to raise awareness and educate on how the opioid epidemic is not only ripping families apart emotionally but also financially by diminishing careers and draining financial assets. 

With over 25 years of experience in the financial services industry, Cheryl brings a unique perspective connecting two critical topics – the opioid epidemic and the financial services industry – expanding client conversations beyond traditional financial discussions. As the owner of Coastal Life Strategies, she leads advocacy efforts to raise awareness and educate on the opioid epidemic across various industries by intertwining the human elements that shape the lives of clients, employees and families.

As a native Floridian, she enjoys spending time with her husband Shamari and their son, the beach, flag football, CrossFit and volunteering. She can often be heard cheering and/or possibly weeping for her beloved Miami Dolphins & Jacksonville Jaguars.