I've had to recover not only from a single well-publicized incident, but several years of press aftermath.

Since it was too difficult to get into the Screen Actor's Guild in New York, I moved to Miami in 1982 and started a successful career as a television commercial actress, obtaining my SAG card there.

I'm stronger knowing that while Donna Rice could be sold, she could not be bought.

Before the group left, Gary asked for my phone number, and the next day he called to ask me to dinner that night. I had no idea he was married, but I found out that night.

I stared at the television in shock, watching as my private life was revealed to the world.

Shortly thereafter, some friends encouraged me to try out for the Miss South Carolina World beauty pageant. To my surprise, I won - and was sent to New York City to compete nationally.

After graduating in the summer of 1980, I knew I wanted my life to count.