If you visit my websites or this blog much, you probably know that I am a big believer in turning problems into invention and product ideas. I also believe that a persons life does not have to be determined by their background or previous experiences. The following short and true story demonstrates both of these ideas.

Tina Aldatz-Norris was born and raised in Fullerton, California. She dropped out of High School at age 15. Her father was in a Mexican Gang and addicted to heroin, while her mother was battling alcoholism and usually on welfare. Obviously, this is not the most encouraging home environment, and some might think that this would truly limit Tina’s outlook and possibilities in life.

Instead she left it behind her, and moved in with a friend. She got a job bagging groceries at an Albertsons. She got her high school equivalency diploma at 16.

Then in 2001, at age 32, she created “Foot Petals.” These are pads which fit under the ball and heel of the foot. Shaped like flowers, they are sold for a few dollars per pair, and are peeled and stuck to the insides of shoes. It is a simple and attractive solution for making woman’s shoes more comfortable.

The inspiration for her product? As a child she stepped on leftover hot coals from a fire on the beach, and suffered third-degree burns. The injury resulted in tender areas that often blistered. The existing food pads and gels were ugly, and she wanted something better, so she created it.

In 2007, her company did $9 million in sales, netting almost $2 million before taxes. She may sell the company if she gets her price: $20 million. Tina Aldatz-Norris says she is ready to move on, because she has a many more ideas to try.

Source: Forbes Magazine, 1/28/2008

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