Recently the phrase “not all heroes wear capes” as been more relatable than ever before. In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic the world’s first responders and nurses carried a weight like never before. They went through daily stressors and challenges that finally showed the world the importance of our healthcare workers. Healthcare workers have carried this weight of responsibility longer than these past few years though. Whether caring for newborn babies or dressing a bullet wound, nurses have always been the backbone of our healthcare facilities. My dream is to help others and one day make a mark on the world like so many others have been able to do in the nursing profession. I have always enjoyed learning about human behavior and actions ever since I was very young. I recently began pairing my interest with the knowledge of the human body to learn more about how I can help others. I started in the certified nursing assistant program in my 10th grade year of high school. By my senior year I was able to learn over 25 skills and put my knowledge and training to work at a Veteran’s home. Doing my clinicals at the veteran’s home was the first time that I got to see the impact I made on others. Whether it was aiding a resident in eating or simply walking them to the game room, I was able to put a smile on their face. This is the rewarding part of nursing that is often not talked about. Everyone is quick to talk about the dirty aspects and possible violence, but no one truly knows what being a nurse is all about. At the end of the day the best thing a nurse does is bring joy to a patient in a time of stress. I hope to one day work in the ICU or ER unit of a hospital. This part of the hospital has always drawn me because it is often an area where it is hard to feel hopeful as a patient or family member. I know because I have spent many times in the hospital with my uncle who has had over 5 heart attacks and 2 strokes. His biggest factor in surviving was feeling hopeful, and I know there have been so many good nurses who gave him hope. I wish more than anything to give this hope to those in need and make a positive impact on the world.

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In 2019 I hit a brick wall in my life that I never imagined could happen to me. I remember laying down in bed and feeling my heart flutter. I knew that every time I went to sleep could have been my last. I started struggling with an eating disorder early on life but was never officially diagnosed with anorexia until the age of 15. By the time I had been diagnosed I was already in need of hospitalization. Having this experience made me want to you join the healthcare field. There are so many people in the world that need help, but can’t get it until it’s too late. Luckily, I was able to entertain a facility that changed my life and helped me recover. Unfortunately, so many in the world do not get this opportunity. I hope that as a member of the healthcare community I can influence those around me to gain a better understanding of mental illness, and break the stigma that surrounds it.