Pamela Chandler is a Dayton-area writer, humorist and mom behind The Chandler Crew, a Facebook blog sharing the chaotic reality of parenting and family life with honesty and humor. She also writes the Gem City Family column for the Dayton Daily News.
When she is not writing, Chandler is usually chasing her daughter around Dayton, exploring parks or chasing stories. Her writing blends heartfelt storytelling with humor shaped by resilience, including her experience raising a neurodivergent child and fighting cancer.
Chandler believes laughter helps people feel less alone and hopes her work reminds readers that even in the hardest seasons, there is still room for joy.
“I write because life is messy, hard, hilarious and worth talking about honestly,” Chandler said. “Humor has always been how I connect with people and survive difficult moments. If my writing can make someone laugh, feel seen or feel a little less alone, then it’s worth it.”
Chandler's essay, Held Together, won first place in the Humor category - Local area in the 2026 Erma Bombeck Writing Competition.