Sometimes the most unexpected events can steer your life to a better place.
Such is the case with Patricia Conroy.
Instead of letting a near-fatal dog attack bring her down, the Canadian country star has elevated herself to a better space.
"I'm happy period these days. I'm feeling more centred. I went through that accident and survived," says Conroy, who plays Rodeo Royal tonight at the Roundup Centre.
Last April, a German shepherd attacked Conroy while she strolled along an Italian beach. Wounds to the back of her head and lower back resulted in a two-week hospital stay.
"I'm not in a hurry; I'm not impatient any more," she says.
"I feel relaxed and content."
Conroy would have had to go to court to have the dog put down, but decided the money and the time would be too much.
"I didn't feel like fighting. I was just happy to be living."
Not long after Conroy put the dog attack behind her, the Soapberry chain of stores signed her as their spokesmodel.
The Bodyshop-like store plans to use Conroy's likeness and she may do some autograph sessions at the beauty stores.
More importantly, the chain will also launch her new independent CD April 1.
The album, which has already spawned the hit single Mary On the Dashboard, will be available 30 days later in record shops.
"Being independent might frighten some people, but I find it exciting. It's a good thing for me," she says.
"It's my record label, so maybe I can make some money."
