Rob Cole began writing in 1993, with his short story, “Brenin”, first published in The Anthologist, Rutgers University’s literary magazine. In 1997, after earning his degree in English with specializations in Creative Writing and Comparative Literature, he built an immersive virtual reality world to present his short stories. He crafted stories for animal rescue websites, such as International Fund for Africa and Steriliseren Nederlands. His fundraiser photo book, HOPE, showcased the impact of pioneering Spayathons.

Rob Cole met Arlinda Willis at a San Francisco law firm in 1994. What began as a cubicle friendship became one of the most important relationships of his life. At Arlinda's request, he documented her life story. For Once in My Life is the result of nearly 20 years of friendship, research, and devotion to getting her story right.

Rob Cole holds a degree in English with specializations in Creative Writing and Comparative Literature. He is the founder of Fellowship for Perpetual Growth, an animal sanctuary on the Big Island of Hawaii, where he lives and writes.