Iris was born in Puerto Rico and raised in New York City until her early teenage years.For reasons unknown to her, at a very early age, Iris was turned over to her maternal grandmother for care. She grew up in a dysfunctional family, finding herself frequently surrounded by drugs, guns and crime, yet somehow managed to escape their influence and remain unharmed. She found a way to balance her life by finding beauty and solace in places like Central Park, The Museum of the City of New York, and the 96th Street Library. Christmas in New York City was a magical time with her maternal grandfather, the only male role model she ever knew. Grandma was responsible for raising her until it was time to leave home at the age of 18. Iris now lives in Florida with her husband, three children and five grandchildren.