Sharon Johnston grew up in Sault Ste. Marie and graduated with a degree in physical and occupational therapy from the University of Toronto. She completed a doctorate in rehabilitation science from McGill University and ran a horse-training business called Chatterbox Farm. In her many duties as wife of Governor General David Johnston, she has recounted and borne witness to the struggles of Canadian veterans adjusting to life after the Great War. She lives at Rideau Hall, in Ottawa.