The phrase “you play the hand you’ve been dealt” is a fancy way of saying “use the resources you have at your disposal and operate realistically within the limits of your circumstances.” The story of Neapolitan native and current Portland, OR resident Pina Di Rosa is the saga of an individual that has overcome numerous difficulties to achieve a satisfying and successful career amidst formidable challenges. 

Pina was raised by her grandparents. Before she was even born, her parents divorced and her father left Italy to immigrate to Switzerland with another woman. Pina’s mother was left to fend for herself and her young family, working different jobs just to make ends meet with no support from her estranged husband.