Lila has made a significant impact on the swing dance community. She began her journey with ballroom dancing before venturing into west coast swing in the 1980s. Her mentors for west coast swing were distinguished instructors like Mark Swann, Jerry Crim, Skippy Blair, and Kenny Wetzel. One of Lila's students was none other than Sonny Watson, a fabulous dancer, and historian.
Lila also took lindy hop lessons from Dean Collins, and it was during one of these sessions that she met Willie Desatoff. Willie would often visit looking for potential students for his balboa dance class. Although he did not find anyone in that particular class, he later regretted it. Sylvia Sykes thought that Lila would be an excellent fit for Willie and informed her of his next class. However, when Lila arrived, Willie's greeting to her was less than friendly. But Lila's charm and skill were undeniable, and before they even had their first date, Willie was telling people that he was going to marry her. At their engagement party, he revealed that she had become his best student, and so he decided to marry her. Lila had the distinct honor of teaching him how to waltz for their wedding.
Lila's talent and expertise have made her a fixture in the balboa dance community, performing at events and teaching workshops worldwide. She is also a respected judge and coach, using her skills to help other dancers improve and reach their full potential.
Lila's contributions were recognized with numerous awards and honors, including induction into the Camp Hollywood Hall of Fame in 2007. She continues to inspire and influence dancers all over the world.