My personal experience with brain cancer began just after my third birthday in July 2008, when doctors discovered a tumor on my brainstem. Because of its delicate location, surgery wasn’t initially an option, and my doctors feared I wouldn’t survive long enough to graduate high school. Despite their grim prognosis, I refused to let cancer define me. In October 2008, I underwent a suboccipital craniectomy and port placement, and a biopsy confirmed the tumor as a grade 1 pilocytic astrocytoma—a slow-growing but persistent brain tumor. Over the next 16 years, I endured six rounds of chemotherapy, proton beam radiation, and two major surgeries. The most difficult phase came in May 2020 when a cyst developed near my tumor, compressing nerves and causing me to lose function in my right leg. I had to wear an ankle-foot orthosis for months, and eventually, decompression surgery was necessary. Thankfully, after surgery, I regained function and began a long recovery process, re-learning how to walk through intense physical therapy. My tumor stabilized in September 2022, and today, I only require yearly check-ups—a great relief after years of treatment and uncertainty. This journey has profoundly shaped my perspective on brain cancer and life itself. For much of my childhood, my focus was solely on survival. It wasn’t until my tumor stabilized that I began to reflect on my future. Spending so much of my life in hospitals introduced me to the compassionate, dedicated professionals who supported me, inspiring me to want to give back. However, my first semester in college taught me the importance of self-awareness. I struggled with being far from my support system and found the academic environment in Iowa challenging. I realized I needed to step back and prioritize my mental, emotional, and physical health. Returning home, I enrolled in community college and took a lighter course load. This period allowed me to focus on healing, while also reflecting on careers I'm interested in. I am still considering various options within healthcare and beyond, but I know I want to work in a field where I can advocate for others, particularly those affected by brain cancer. Beyond my own medical journey, I have been committed to raising awareness about brain cancer and supporting others. I have shared my story openly, offering hope and encouragement to families navigating similar diagnoses. By participating in-hospital events, connecting with newly diagnosed patients, and engaging in local cancer awareness initiatives, I have aimed to reduce the stigma and fear often associated with brain tumors. I believe that sharing firsthand experiences fosters understanding and provides much-needed emotional support to those who feel isolated. These efforts have not only strengthened my local community but have also helped me develop empathy, resilience, and leadership skills. Receiving this scholarship will play a crucial role in allowing me to continue my education while balancing my health and advocacy efforts. Financial assistance will alleviate some of the burdens, enabling me to focus on developing the skills I need to contribute meaningfully to brain cancer awareness and support. Whether I ultimately pursue a career in nursing, healthcare administration, or patient advocacy, my goal remains the same: to use my experiences to help others navigate their journeys, promote awareness, and provide hope. Looking back, my battle with brain cancer has instilled in me a deep appreciation for health, family, and purposeful living. It has shaped my personal values and career ambitions in ways I could never have imagined. I am determined to continue turning my struggle into strength—not only for myself but for others—ensuring that no one feels alone in their fight.

Golf has been more than just a sport for me—it has been a source of escape, resilience, and personal growth. From the moment I first picked up a club, I was drawn to the mental and physical challenges that the game presents. Unlike other sports, golf requires a unique combination of patience, strategy, and focus, which has helped me navigate not only the game itself but also the challenges I have faced in life, including my battle with cancer. As a female golfer, I have encountered obstacles along the way, but my experiences have only deepened my love for the sport and strengthened my determination to succeed. One of the main reasons I enjoy playing golf is the mental discipline it requires. Every shot is different, every course presents new obstacles, and every round demands focus and adaptability. Golf is a game of persistence—much like my own life. As someone who has faced significant medical challenges due to my inoperable brainstem tumor, I appreciate how golf teaches me to stay calm under pressure and embrace challenges with confidence. It is one of the few places where I feel in control, where I can set personal goals and push myself to improve with each round. The game has provided me with an outlet to step away from the stress of medical treatments, giving me something to look forward to and work toward. However, being a female golfer comes with its own set of challenges. Golf has historically been a male-dominated sport, and even today, female golfers often face unequal opportunities, access, and recognition. I have experienced moments where I felt underestimated or overlooked simply because of my gender. Whether it was receiving less course time, not being taken as seriously during competitions, or having fewer role models to look up to in the sport, I quickly realized that I had to work even harder to prove myself. Despite these challenges, I have never let them define me. Instead, they have fueled my determination to continue growing as a golfer and to encourage other young female athletes to pursue the game. I have learned to advocate for myself, embrace competition with confidence, and find support in the community of strong female golfers who are breaking barriers in the sport. Being a female golfer has taught me the importance of resilience and self-belief, lessons that have carried over into every aspect of my life. Golf is more than just a sport—it is a reflection of my journey. It has shown me that challenges, whether on the course or in life, are meant to be faced head-on. As a female golfer and a cancer survivor, I have learned that setbacks are temporary, but perseverance leads to growth. I continue to play because golf brings me joy, pushes me to be my best, and reminds me that I am capable of overcoming any obstacle.

Cancer and golf may seem unrelated at first glance, but for me, they are deeply connected. Both have taught me patience, perseverance and the importance of mental strength. While my battle with cancer shaped my resilience, golf became an outlet that helped me navigate the physical and emotional challenges of my condition. The lessons I have learned through both experiences have defined who I am today and continue to shape my future. Winning this scholarship would not only help me continue my education but also allow me to further my journey of advocacy, perseverance, and personal growth. My journey with cancer began when I was just three years old. Diagnosed with an inoperable brainstem tumor, I was immediately thrust into a world of uncertainty, treatments, and medical procedures. My family and I faced countless obstacles—six rounds of chemotherapy, proton beam radiation, and multiple surgeries—yet through it all, I fought to maintain a sense of normalcy. That is where golf came into my life. Golf became more than just a sport for me; it was a mental escape from the overwhelming stress of cancer treatments. Unlike other sports that required intense physical exertion, golf allowed me to play at my own pace while still challenging me mentally. It was one of the few activities where I felt in control—something that cancer often took away from me. Every swing required focus and precision, much like the careful approach I had to take with my medical treatments. Golf taught me patience, resilience, and the ability to adapt, all of which were necessary for my journey with cancer. Beyond the sport itself, golf also provided me with a strong sense of community. I met people who supported me, encouraged me, and reminded me that I was more than my diagnosis. It became a bridge between my struggles and my passions, showing me that despite my condition, I could still find joy, set goals, and work toward achieving them. In many ways, the game mirrored my cancer journey—there were setbacks, frustrations, and unexpected challenges, but with perseverance and the right mindset, I learned to keep moving forward. This scholarship would mean more than just financial support for my education; it would be a recognition of the resilience I have developed through both cancer and golf. My battle with cancer has shaped my outlook on life, and my experience with golf has reinforced my ability to stay focused and determined. As I pursue my education, I want to use my story to inspire others who are facing similar challenges. Whether through advocacy, mentorship, or a career in a field that helps others, I want to give back to the community that has supported me throughout my journey. Golf and cancer have connected my life in a way that I never could have anticipated. They have taught me the value of resilience, mental strength, and perseverance. Winning this scholarship would allow me to continue my education and use my experiences to make a positive impact on others. My journey is far from over, but with the same determination I bring to the golf course and my fight against cancer, I am ready to face whatever challenges come next.

Cancer is often described as a disease that affects not just the person diagnosed but their entire family. My journey with cancer has profoundly impacted my loved ones, shaping our relationships, perspectives, and resilience. From uncertainty and fear to hope and determination, my family and I have faced this battle together, learning valuable lessons about strength, support, and perseverance. My cancer journey began when I was just three years old. In July 2008, my doctors discovered an inoperable brainstem tumor. At the time, my family was thrust into a world of medical uncertainty, forced to navigate treatments, procedures, and prognoses that no one ever anticipates for their child. My parents became my advocates, researching treatment options and making difficult medical decisions while also providing me with unwavering emotional support. Despite the doctors' belief that I would not live past high school, my family never lost hope. Their strength became my strength, and their determination fueled my fight. Over the next 16 years, I underwent multiple rounds of chemotherapy, proton beam radiation, and surgeries. Each treatment brought its own challenges, but my family remained by my side, offering comfort and encouragement through the toughest moments. Cancer did not just affect my physical health—it changed the dynamics within my family. The stress of my condition took a toll on all of us, testing our patience, resilience, and ability to adapt. My parents had to balance hospital visits with work and daily responsibilities, while my siblings had to adjust to a life that often revolved around my medical needs. Yet, instead of breaking us, these challenges strengthened our bond. We learned to appreciate the small moments, to celebrate every milestone, and to support each other in ways we never had before. Through this experience, I have come to understand the true meaning of family—not just as a unit bound by blood but as a source of unwavering love, sacrifice, and endurance. One of the most important lessons I have learned through my experience with cancer is the power of resilience. Watching my family navigate fear and uncertainty with courage has taught me that setbacks do not define us; how we respond to them does. This mindset has carried over into other aspects of my life, including my education and career aspirations. Before my tumor stabilized, my future felt uncertain. I was too focused on surviving to think about long-term goals. However, as my condition improved, I began to seriously consider what I wanted to do with my life. Having spent so much time in hospitals and around medical professionals, I knew I wanted a career that allowed me to help others in meaningful ways. Initially, I pursued nursing, believing it to be the best way to give back to the medical community that had done so much for me. However, after experiencing academic struggles and anxiety during my first semester of college, I realized that I needed to explore different career options. Taking a step back to prioritize my mental and physical well-being allowed me to reflect on my strengths and passions. While I am still figuring out my exact path, I know that my experiences with cancer have given me a unique perspective—one that I want to use to advocate for others facing similar battles. Cancer has shaped every aspect of my life, but it has also given me a deeper appreciation for resilience, family, and the importance of pursuing a future with purpose. My family’s unwavering support has taught me that challenges can be overcome and that adversity can lead to growth.

Anxiety has been a significant part of my journey, shaping my experiences and influencing my personal and academic growth. Coupled with my battle with cancer, anxiety has presented challenges that have tested my resilience and determination. However, it has also motivated me to seek stability and purpose, which is why pursuing a college degree is so important to me. Living with an inoperable brainstem tumor for most of my life has meant enduring countless medical treatments, surgeries, and uncertainty about my future. This ongoing battle has contributed to my struggles with anxiety, making even everyday situations feel overwhelming at times. The pressure to stay strong, meet expectations, and navigate an unpredictable medical condition often heightened my feelings of self-doubt and stress. During my first semester of college, this anxiety became more apparent than ever. Being in an unfamiliar environment, away from my usual support system, I struggled to adapt. The constant worry about my health, combined with academic challenges, made it difficult for me to focus and thrive. I quickly realized that in order to succeed, I needed to take a step back and prioritize both my mental and physical well-being. Despite these challenges, my experience with anxiety has also helped me grow in ways I never expected. It has taught me the importance of self-care, patience, and seeking help when needed. After returning home, I made a conscious effort to manage my anxiety by finding a balance between education and personal well-being. Enrolling in a community college with a lighter course load allowed me to regain confidence in my academic abilities while maintaining my health. More importantly, I have learned that setbacks do not define me; rather, they serve as opportunities for growth and self-discovery. Pursuing a college degree is important to me because it represents more than just academic achievement—it is a symbol of resilience, perseverance, and hope. Education is my way of taking control of my future, despite the uncertainties that my medical condition and anxiety have presented. Through my studies, I hope to find a career path that allows me to combine my experiences with my desire to help others. Whether in healthcare, advocacy, or a related field, I want to use my journey to make a difference in the lives of those who face similar challenges. While anxiety will always be a part of my life, I have learned how to manage it and use it as a source of motivation rather than a limitation. By continuing my education, I am proving to myself that I am capable of achieving my goals, no matter the obstacles in my path. College is not just a step toward a career; it is a testament to my strength, determination, and unwavering commitment to building a meaningful future. With the right education and support, I am confident that I can turn my experiences into a force for positive change, both for myself and for others.

My journey with cancer has been the most defining experience of my life, shaping my perspective, resilience, and future aspirations. Diagnosed with a brain tumor just after my third birthday, I grew up facing medical challenges that influenced not only my personal growth but also my academic and professional goals. My battle has taught me perseverance, self-awareness, and the importance of using my experiences to help others. For 16 years, I have navigated the complexities of living with an inoperable brainstem tumor. I have undergone multiple rounds of chemotherapy, proton beam radiation, and major surgeries. One of the most difficult periods came in 2020 when a cyst near my tumor caused nerve compression, leading to foot drop and loss of function in my leg. Following decompression surgery and months of physical therapy, I relearned how to walk. While my tumor remains stable today, the experience has left a lasting impact on how I view challenges and my ability to overcome them. Cancer has shaped my outlook on life in profound ways. Growing up, I was often too focused on surviving each treatment to think about the future. However, once my tumor stabilized, I was finally able to reflect on my aspirations and long-term goals. The time I spent in hospitals and receiving care sparked an interest in healthcare, leading me to initially pursue nursing. However, after experiencing difficulties in my first semester of college, I realized I needed to reassess my career path. I am now exploring various options in the medical field and beyond, seeking a profession where I can combine my personal experiences with my passion for advocacy and helping others. Receiving this scholarship would support my academic journey, allowing me to continue my education without financial burden while also remaining engaged in cancer awareness initiatives. I hope to use my experiences to contribute meaningfully to the cancer community, whether through patient advocacy, nonprofit work, or a healthcare-related career. My goal is to ensure that individuals affected by cancer receive the support, understanding, and resources they need. Ultimately, my direct experience with cancer has given me a unique perspective on resilience, purpose, and the power of support. Though my path is still evolving, I am committed to using my journey as a tool for positive change. This scholarship would not only help me achieve my academic goals but also empower me to continue advocating for those facing similar challenges.

Being diagnosed with a brain tumor at a young age has shaped every aspect of my life, from my personal resilience to my academic and career aspirations. My journey has been one of immense challenges, but it has also instilled in me a deep appreciation for perseverance, self-discovery, and the importance of helping others. My battle with cancer began just after my third birthday when doctors discovered an inoperable brainstem tumor. Over the next 16 years, I underwent multiple rounds of chemotherapy, proton beam radiation, and major surgeries to manage the tumor’s growth. One of the most difficult moments came in 2020 when a cyst near my tumor caused severe nerve compression, leading to foot drop and loss of function in my leg. After undergoing decompression surgery and months of physical therapy, I relearned how to walk. Though my tumor remains stable, I continue to experience symptoms that serve as daily reminders of my journey. Despite these challenges, my brain tumor has motivated me to move forward with resilience and a renewed perspective on life. I have learned to appreciate every milestone, no matter how small, and to focus on what I can control rather than what I cannot. The strength I have developed through my experiences has given me a deep sense of purpose—to use my journey as a source of encouragement for others facing similar battles. My academic and career goals have been greatly influenced by my medical experiences. Initially, I pursued nursing, believing that my time in hospitals and as a patient would allow me to provide compassionate care to others. However, after my first semester of college, I realized that I needed to take a step back to reassess my future. I am currently exploring other fields within healthcare and advocacy, searching for a path that allows me to make a meaningful impact on those affected by illness. Receiving this scholarship would provide financial relief and enable me to continue my education while remaining active in brain tumor awareness initiatives. Whether through direct patient care, nonprofit work, or healthcare administration, I aim to use my experiences to support and uplift those facing similar challenges. My journey with a brain tumor has not only shaped my resilience but has also fueled my passion for making a difference in the lives of others. Although my path is still evolving, I remain committed to finding a career where I can turn my hardships into a source of strength and guidance for others. My experiences have given me a profound understanding of perseverance, and I hope to use that knowledge to inspire, educate, and support those navigating their own battles. This scholarship would not only help me achieve my academic goals but also empower me to continue my mission of advocacy and awareness for those affected by brain tumors.

Sabrina Carpenter’s music and career have had a profound impact on me, providing inspiration and comfort throughout my journey with ADHD, depression, and anxiety. Her artistry, resilience, and ability to express deep emotions through her lyrics have resonated with me in ways that few other artists have. One of the reasons I am such a fan of Sabrina Carpenter is her authenticity. She has never shied away from expressing her true self, whether through her music, acting, or public persona. As someone who has struggled with self-doubt and anxiety, seeing her confidence and ability to stay true to herself has encouraged me to embrace my own identity. Her journey in the entertainment industry, overcoming challenges and proving herself as a multi-talented artist, serves as a reminder that persistence and passion can lead to success despite obstacles. Sabrina’s music, in particular, has been a source of comfort for me. Songs like “because i liked a boy” and “emails i can’t send” delve into themes of self-reflection, personal struggles, and resilience, which I deeply relate to. Her lyrics often capture emotions I’ve struggled to put into words myself, making me feel understood and less alone in my experiences. During my toughest moments, her music has provided solace, reminding me that feelings of uncertainty, heartbreak, and self-discovery are part of the journey. Additionally, her ability to balance multiple passions—acting, singing, and songwriting—has inspired me to embrace my own interests without fear of failure. Seeing her evolve from a Disney Channel actress into a respected musician has shown me that growth is a continuous process and that it’s okay to explore different paths. This perspective has been incredibly helpful as I navigate my own educational and career decisions, understanding that success is not always linear. Sabrina Carpenter’s career has impacted me beyond just her music. She embodies resilience, self-expression, and the courage to evolve despite public scrutiny. Her journey has helped me find confidence in my own path, encouraging me to keep pushing forward despite challenges. Her artistry has not only been a source of entertainment but also a meaningful part of my personal growth.

Mental health challenges, much like chronic illness, have the power to reshape not only the way we see ourselves but also how we navigate the world. My journey with ADHD, depression, and anxiety has been transformative and filled with struggles, growth, and self-discovery. These experiences have influenced my aspirations, altered my approach to education, and ultimately shaped my vision for the future. While managing mental health conditions is an ongoing journey, it has provided me with invaluable resilience and insight that I carry with me in every aspect of my life. From a young age, I struggled with symptoms of ADHD, though I wasn’t diagnosed until later. Growing up, I often felt frustrated and misunderstood. I had an endless stream of thoughts racing through my mind, yet I struggled to stay focused on tasks that didn’t immediately capture my interest. In school, I found myself easily distracted, jumping from one thought to another, which made traditional learning environments difficult for me. Despite my intelligence and curiosity, my ADHD often made it seem as though I wasn’t trying hard enough or that I wasn’t capable of reaching my full potential. As I grew older, my struggles were compounded by anxiety and depression. The unpredictability of my emotions and the weight of self-doubt often left me feeling paralyzed. Simple tasks became overwhelming, and the fear of failure led me to procrastinate, reinforcing a cycle of guilt and frustration. The pressures of school, social expectations, and an internal desire to succeed created an ongoing battle within me. I felt stuck, unable to move forward despite my aspirations. My first year of college became a turning point. I had chosen to pursue nursing, believing that my experiences in the healthcare system and my desire to help others would make it the right fit for me. However, I quickly realized that the demanding structure of the program, combined with my untreated ADHD and mental health struggles, made it difficult for me to thrive. I often felt isolated, overwhelmed, and unsure of my path. While I was passionate about helping others, I realized that I needed to help myself first. By the end of my first semester, I made the difficult decision to return home and prioritize my mental health. Taking a semester off was one of the best decisions I’ve made for myself. It allowed me the space to reflect, seek professional support, and develop healthier coping mechanisms. I worked with doctors to properly manage my ADHD, which significantly improved my ability to focus and process information. I also engaged in therapy, where I learned to navigate my anxiety and depression through self-awareness, mindfulness, and structured routines. For the first time, I felt like I had control over my own mind, rather than being at its mercy. As I continue my education at my community college, I have approached learning with a newfound sense of self-compassion and adaptability. I now understand that my journey may look different from others, and that’s okay. I am still exploring potential career paths, but I am no longer limited by the fear of making the “wrong” choice. Whether I continue in the medical field or pursue a different path, I know that my experiences with mental health have equipped me with empathy, resilience, and a deeper understanding of the human experience—qualities that will serve me well in any profession. My plan for managing my recovery and maintaining my mental health is rooted in consistency and self-awareness. I have built a support system that includes my family, friends, and medical professionals, ensuring that I never have to face challenges alone. I prioritize self-care by maintaining a balance between school, work, and personal time, recognizing that burnout is counterproductive to my success. Additionally, I remain actively engaged in therapy and continue to implement strategies that help me stay organized, manage stress, and maintain a healthy mindset. Ultimately, my journey with ADHD, depression, and anxiety has taught me that struggles do not define a person—how they respond to those struggles does. I am proud of how far I have come and excited for what lies ahead. My experiences have given me a unique perspective on resilience and personal growth, and I plan to use this perspective to help others who may be navigating similar challenges. While the road ahead may still have obstacles, I now have the tools and the mindset to face them head-on, and that makes all the difference.

At three years old, I was diagnosed with cancer—too young to understand, but old enough to feel its impact. My childhood wasn’t playgrounds and playdates; it was hospital rooms, IV drips, and quiet conversations between my parents and doctors. The medical team that cared for me wasn’t just treating a disease; they were giving me a chance at life. Growing up in and out of hospitals, I developed an early understanding of resilience. Every blood draw, every round of treatment, and every scan taught me patience and perseverance. But more than anything, it showed me the power of medicine—not just in healing the body, but in restoring hope. My doctors and nurses didn’t just administer treatments; they comforted my family, encouraged me through the toughest moments, and never let me feel like just another patient. As I grew older, I realized I wanted to provide that same care for others. I understood what it meant to be vulnerable in a hospital bed, to fear the unknown, and to rely on the expertise and kindness of medical professionals. That understanding became my motivation to enter the medical field—not just to treat illness, but to be a source of hope and support for patients and their families. Surviving cancer didn’t just make me stronger; it gave me purpose. Medicine is more than a career to me—it’s a calling. I want to be the person who stands beside patients in their darkest moments, just as others once stood beside me. My journey has come full circle, and now, I’m ready to dedicate my life to giving others the same chance at healing that I was given.