Too often we go through life not knowing the person standing next to us.

MyDesert, MyLife is a series by Desert Sun staff photographer Marilyn Chung that offers a chance to meet new folks. The Coachella Valley is filled with interesting people, and now you'll gain insight into their lives.

Gillian Jones, 38, is learning how to dance with her ballroom dance instructor Adrian Torres for the Dancing with OUR Stars charity event on Nov. 8. Jones will be dancing for the charity Friends Helping Friends Cancer Fund. For more information on the charity event visit www.dancingwithourstars.com.

Watch the video of her story at www.mydesert.com/mylife.