An interview with Wendy Deiotte, member of the Northwest Indiana Chapter, Division I, Indiana Ghost Trackers.

Danielle Garrison: 

Hello Wendy, I'm Danielle Garrison the State Public Relations Coordinator with the Indiana Ghost Trackers.  Thank you for accepting my request for an interview! 

Can you tell us a little about yourself?

Wendy Deiotte:

I'm married and have 2 sons.  I'm a Register Nurse and have decided to take time off from my career since my youngest son was diagnosed with autism and ADHD about four years ago.  I volunteer with many of my son's activities such as school events, cub scouts, and challengers little league.  My interests include the paranormal, rollercoasters, music (rock, metal, and classical), horror movies, camping, and animals.

Danielle Garrison:

A registered nurse, that's great.  It is very important to show the public we have many types of professionals in our chapters. 

What can you tell us about your first paranormal experience? 

Wendy Deiotte:

Okay, this might sound silly.  When I was around 6 or 7, I was taking the garbage out next to the house, and as I turned away I got a sudden rush of warm calmness.  I turned back and looked up towards the sky.  I saw a tiny figure of a woman.  She looked older, had auburn hair up in a bun, wore a long yellow dress and pearls, and she was chubby.  She hovered way above me for a few seconds then was gone.  I'll never forget seeing her.  To this day, I believe she was an angel. 

Danielle Garrison:

That doesn't sound silly at all.  I've spoken with several people that have had similar experiences.

Why did you get involved with the Indiana Ghost Trackers?

Wendy Deiotte:

I was checking out Halloween events and came across the IGT tours.  I called to get more info.  I talked with Anne Ubis on the phone for quite a while about the group.  I have always been interested in ghosts and the paranormal.  I was so excited to hear about what IGT does.  I was hooked!

Danielle Garrison:

I can understand, it's like an addition for me.

What do your family and friends think about you being a ghost hunter?

Wendy Deiotte:

Some think it's really cool, especially my oldest son.  Others are kind of indifferent.

Danielle Garrison:

Have you ever run into a skeptic?  What did you say to them?

Wendy Deiotte:

Yes.  I don't really say anything.  I try to respect other's opinions.

Danielle Garrison:

Personally, I feel it is important to respect all opinions, since we are dealing with a subject that isn't an exact science yet.  We could potentially be incorrect in our observations. 

If you encounter a ghost, what would you ask if you had the chance to have a conversation?

Wendy Deiotte:

I would like to know how they feel about the living trying to contact them.  I would love to hear anything they had to say.

Danielle Garrison:

If you could investigate a famous haunting anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?

Wendy Deiotte:

The U.K.  There are so many so many haunted castles, pubs, inns, and of course the Tower of London and the Whitechapel area.  The land and old castles are breathtaking and full of history.  In the U.S. I would choose the Winchester mansion and Gettysburg.

Danielle Garrison:

Oh, I couldn't agree more.  Europe has an amazing "feel" of history in many areas.

What would you tell someone that is experiencing paranormal activity in their home?

Wendy Deiotte:

Go to the IGT website and request an investigation.  Also, keep a journal of what is happening.

Danielle Garrison:

Do your children talk to what you believe are ghosts?

Wendy Deiotte:

No

Danielle Garrison:

Do you think children and pets are able to make contact with spirits easier then adults? 

Wendy Deiotte: 

Absolutely.  An animal's senses have so much more range than human's.  I think children have clearer "senses" than adults- they haven't had years of info, preconceived notions, etc. clouding their minds.

Danielle Garrison:

I've been dying to ask this question...How did you get your very unique handle of "costieghostie"?

Wendy Deiotte: 

Confession time!  When I was little, me and a friend made up this character "woo woo ghostie".  He looked kind of like this.  To this day, some people still call me "woo" or "Wendy-woo".  I am a roller coaster fanatic!  Add in the fact that I am now a ghost tracker, and you get "coastighosti". LOL!

Danielle Garrison:

LOL Too cool!

What was your favorite IGT moment and why?

Wendy Deiotte:

On a hunt at the Old Porter Co. Home.  We were in the cardiac room doing EVP and I was holding dowsing rods for the first time.  We were trying to communicate with little Timmy.  While talking to him, I felt a tug on my left wrist several times, and we saw my wrist move.  It was the first time I experienced anything like this, it was great!

Danielle Garrison:

Wendy Deiotte:

OH NO!  I answered question #13!  I'm doomed!  (no disrespect intended toward those who are superstitious)

 Danielle Garrison:

LOL

What would you like to see happen with IGT in the future?

Wendy Deiotte:

Continue to grow and inspire others.  Be recognized as the best ghost hunting group in the Nation!  Also, some foundation could provide our members with all-expense paid trips around the world to haunted places!  Does Bill Gates frequent our website? hehe

 Danielle Garrison:

What does your spouse think about your ghost hunting

Wendy Deiotte:

I don't think he's into it as much as me, but he thinks it's cool.  I'm still trying to get him to join!

Danielle Garrison:

I really enjoyed interviewing you Wendy!  Thank you for letting us get to know you better!