One of my memories of growing up is of living in Pueblo with my mother and my two brothers. I had to endure my family's substance abuse while surviving on assistance and in Section 8 housing. My mother prioritized her drug addiction over her commitments, and I had to learn to cope with homelessness and sexual assault. Fortunately, I had my grandmother Darlene. I could go on and on about her; she was my best friend and, more importantly, my mother figure. She helped shape me into the person I am today. She predicted that I will accomplish great things in my life. So losing her suddenly to a brain aneurysm was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to experience. Her death is something I still struggle with to this day. It was the start of the second portion of my childhood. My family reacted in various ways. My brothers started doing harsher drugs and joining gangs. These decisions have led them down a criminal path that has inevitably place them within prison. I wish I could say they're in an improved situation now, but they're both still chasing the dragon of terrible mistakes. My mother abandoned me when she decided she no longer wanted to be a mother to focus totally on her new marriage and drug addiction. Because of all of these circumstances, my life experiences lead me to be an adult in a child's body. It was easy for everyone, including me, to want to give up. When the only person who ever thought you would be something in life dies abruptly and unexpectedly, it changes the whole wiring layout in your brain. Considering I had never my dad alone, he freely acknowledged that he had little understanding of how to parent a female. It was extremely challenging to get adjusted to. Our relationship was rough for a long time and with all these things happening in my life I began to struggle with depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts. Dealing with mental health issues silently while also trying to be a good student and athlete is something I would never want to experience again. Although it took me six years, three notebooks full of my feelings, and countless sessions of therapy, I am happy to say I have overcome and learned to live with all these struggles. By using my struggles for the greater good, I'm able to help those who have gone through similar experiences. I've learned that just because I lack the resources, money, and support I deserve, that doesn't mean I shouldn't pursue it. I understand what it feels like to be on your own. I didn’t like the cards I was dealt so I decided to reshuffle the deck. Getting an education is the most important thing in my life right now. Being that my mom dropped out in 8th grade and my brothers in 12th, My main goal for my education is to be able finally to breathe. School for me has had big ups & downs, I've been on top of Mount Everest, but I've also been in the deepest trenches of the ocean. I’m ready to be the change that my family needs. As of right now, I am attending the Metropolitan State University of Denver and will receive my degree in late 2024, I am both a Community Correction Specialist to be able to help people like my family; and a high school swim coach to be able to help girls like me.

One of my memories of growing up is of living in Pueblo with my mother and my two brothers. I had to endure my family's substance abuse while surviving on assistance and in Section 8 housing. My mother prioritized her drug addiction over her commitments, and I had to learn to cope with homelessness and sexual assault. Fortunately, I had my grandmother Darlene. I could go on and on about her; she was my best friend and, more importantly, my mother figure. She helped shape me into the person I am today. She predicted that I will accomplish great things in my life. So losing her suddenly to a brain aneurysm was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to experience. Her death is something I still struggle with to this day. It was the start of the second portion of my childhood. My family reacted in various ways. My brothers started doing harsher drugs and joining gangs. These decisions have led them down a criminal path that has inevitably place them within prison. I wish I could say they're in an improved situation now, but they're both still chasing the dragon of terrible mistakes. My mother abandoned me when she decided she no longer wanted to be a mother in order to focus totally on her new marriage and drug addiction. Because of all of these circumstances, my life experiences lead me to be an adult in a child's body. It was easy for everyone, including me, to want to give up. When the only person who ever thought you would be something in life dies abruptly and unexpectedly, it changes the whole wiring layout in your brain. Considering I had never my dad alone, he freely acknowledges that he had little understanding of how to parent a female. It was extremely challenging to get adjusted to. Our relationship was rough for a long time and with all these things happening in my life I began to struggle with depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts. Dealing with mental health issues silently while also trying to be a good student and athlete is something I would never want to experience again. Although it took me six years, three notebooks full of my feelings, and countless sessions of therapy, I am happy to say I have overcome and learned to live with all these struggles. By using my struggles for the greater good, I'm able to help those who had gone through similar experiences. I've learned that just because I lack the resources, money, and support I deserve, that doesn't mean I shouldn't pursue it. I understand what it feels like to be on your own. I didn’t like the cards I was dealt so I decided to reshuffle the deck. Getting an education is the most important thing in my life right now. Being that my mom dropped out in 8th grade and my brothers in 12th, My main goal for my education is to be able finally to breathe. School for me has had big up & downs, I've been on top of Mount Everest, but I've also been in the deepest trenches of the ocean. I’m ready to be the change that my family needs. As of right now, I am attending the Metropolitan State University of Denver and will receive my degree in late 2024, I am both a Community Correction Specialist to be able to help people like my family; and a high school swim coach to be able to help girls like me.

One of my memories of growing up is of living in Pueblo with my mother and my two brothers. I had to endure my family's substance abuse while surviving on assistance and in Section 8 housing. My mother prioritized her drug addiction over her commitments, and I had to learn to cope with homelessness and sexual assault. Fortunately, I had my grandmother Darlene. I could go on and on about her; she was my best friend and, more importantly, my mother figure. She helped shape me into the person I am today. She predicted that I will accomplish great things in my life. So losing her suddenly to a brain aneurysm was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to experience. Her death is something I still struggle with to this day. It was the start of the second portion of my childhood. My family reacted in various ways. My brothers started doing harsher drugs and joining gangs. These decisions have led them down a criminal path that has inevitably place them within prison. I wish I could say they're in an improved situation now, but they're both still chasing the dragon of terrible mistakes. My mother abandoned me when she decided she no longer wanted to be a mother in order to focus totally on her new marriage and drug addiction. Because of all of these circumstances, my life experiences lead me to be an adult in a child's body. It was easy for everyone, including me, to want to give up. When the only person who ever thought you would be something in life dies abruptly and unexpectedly, it changes the whole wiring layout in your brain. Considering I had never my dad alone, he freely acknowledges that he had little understanding of how to parent a female. It was extremely challenging to get adjusted to. Our relationship was rough for a long time and with all these things happening in my life I began to struggle with depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts. Dealing with mental health issues silently while also trying to be a good student and athlete is something I would never want to experience again. Although it took me six years, three notebooks full of my feelings, and countless sessions of therapy, I am happy to say I have overcome and learned to live with all these struggles. By using my struggles for the greater good, I'm able to help those who had gone through similar experiences. I've learned that just because I lack the resources, money, and support I deserve, that doesn't mean I shouldn't pursue it. I understand what it feels like to be on your own. I didn’t like the cards I was dealt so I decided to reshuffle the deck. Getting an education is the most important thing in my life right now. Being that my mom dropped out in 8th grade and my brothers in 12th, My main goal for my education is to be able finally to breathe. School for me has had big up & downs, I've been on top of Mount Everest, but I've also been in the deepest trenches of the ocean. I’m ready to be the change that my family needs. As of right now, I am attending the Metropolitan State University of Denver and will receive my degree in late 2024, I am both a Community Correction Specialist to be able to help people like my family; and a high school swim coach to be able to help girls like me.

One of my memories of growing up is of living in Pueblo with my mother and my two brothers. I had to endure my family's substance abuse while surviving on assistance and in Section 8 housing. My mother prioritized her drug addiction over her commitments, and I had to learn to cope with homelessness and sexual assault. Fortunately, I had my grandmother Darlene. I could go on and on about her; she was my best friend and, more importantly, my mother figure. She helped shape me into the person I am today. She predicted that I will accomplish great things in my life. So losing her suddenly to a brain aneurysm was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to experience. Her death is something I still struggle with to this day. It was the start of the second portion of my childhood. My family reacted in various ways. My brothers started doing harsher drugs and joining gangs. These decisions have led them down a criminal path that has inevitably place them within prison. I wish I could say they're in an improved situation now, but they're both still chasing the dragon of terrible mistakes. My mother abandoned me when she decided she no longer wanted to be a mother in order to focus totally on her new marriage and drug addiction. Because of all of these circumstances, my life experiences lead me to be an adult in a child's body. It was easy for everyone, including me, to want to give up. When the only person who ever thought you would be something in life dies abruptly and unexpectedly, it changes the whole wiring layout in your brain. Considering I had never my dad alone, he freely acknowledges that he had little understanding of how to parent a female. It was extremely challenging to get adjusted to. Our relationship was rough for a long time and with all these things happening in my life I began to struggle with depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts. Dealing with mental health issues silently while also trying to be a good student and athlete is something I would never want to experience again. Although it took me six years, three notebooks full of my feelings, and countless sessions of therapy, I am happy to say I have overcome and learned to live with all these struggles. By using my struggles for the greater good, I'm able to help those who had gone through similar experiences. I've learned that just because I lack the resources, money, and support I deserve, that doesn't mean I shouldn't pursue it. I understand what it feels like to be on your own. I didn’t like the cards I was dealt so I decided to reshuffle the deck. Getting an education is the most important thing in my life right now. Being that my mom dropped out in 8th grade and my brothers in 12th, My main goal for my education is to be able finally to breathe. School for me has had big up & downs, I've been on top of Mount Everest, but I've also been in the deepest trenches of the ocean. I’m ready to be the change that my family needs. As of right now, I am attending the Metropolitan State University of Denver and will receive my degree in late 2024, I am both a Community Correction Specialist to be able to help people like my family; and a high school swim coach to be able to help girls like me.

One of my memories of growing up is of living in Pueblo with my mother and my two brothers. I had to endure my family's substance abuse while surviving on assistance and in Section 8 housing. My mother put her addiction to drugs before her obligations, and I had to learn to cope with homelessness and sexual assault. Luckily for me, I had my grandma Darlene. I could talk about her all day, she was my best friend and primarily my mother figure. She is part of the reason I’m the person I am today. She knew I was going to do amazing things with my life. So losing her suddenly to a brain aneurysm was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to experience. Her death is something I still struggle with to this day. It was the start of my second growing-up life. My family reacted in different ways. My brothers began to do even harder drugs and get involved in gangs. These choices have led them down a path of crime which inevitably leads them to prison. I wish I could say they were in a better spot now but they both continue to chase the dragon of bad decisions. I was left with my dad by my mother when she decided she was done being a mother so she could concentrate fully on her new marriage and drug addiction. My life experiences caused me to be an adult in a child's body because of all these circumstances. It was easy for everyone, including me, to want to give up. When the only person who ever thought you would be something in life dies abruptly and unexpectedly, it changes the whole wiring layout in your brain. Considering I had never my dad alone, he freely acknowledges that he had little understanding of how to parent a female. It was extremely challenging to get adjusted to. Our relationship was rough for a long time and with all these things happening in my life I began to struggle with depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts. Dealing with mental health issues silently while also trying to be a good student and athlete is something I would never want to experience again. Although it took me six years, three notebooks full of my feelings, and countless sessions of therapy, I am happy to say I have overcome and learned to live with all these struggles. By using my struggles for the greater good, I'm able to help those who had gone through similar experiences. I've learned that just because I lack the resources, money, and support I deserve, that doesn't mean I shouldn't pursue it. I understand what it feels like to be on your own. I didn’t like the cards I was dealt so I decided to reshuffle the deck. Getting an education is the most important thing in my life right now. Being that my mom dropped out in 8th grade and my brothers in 12th, My main goal for my education is to be able finally to breathe. School for me has had big up & downs, I've been on top of Mount Everest, but I've also been in the deepest trenches of the ocean. I’m ready to be the change that my family needs. As of right now, I am attending the Metropolitan State University of Denver and will receive my degree in late 2024, I am both a Community Correction Specialist to be able to help people like my family; and a high school swim coach to be able to help girls like me.

One of my memories of growing up is of living in Pueblo with my mother and my two brothers. I had to endure my family's substance abuse while surviving on assistance and in Section 8 housing. My mother put her addiction to drugs before her obligations, and I had to learn to cope with homelessness and sexual assault. Luckily for me, I had my grandma Darlene. I could talk about her all day, she was my best friend and primarily my mother figure. She is part of the reason I’m the person I am today. She knew I was going to do amazing things with my life. So losing her suddenly to a brain aneurysm was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to experience. Her death is something I still struggle with to this day. It was the start of my second growing-up life. My family reacted in different ways. My brothers began to do even harder drugs and get involved in gangs. These choices have led them down a path of crime which inevitably leads them to prison. I wish I could say they were in a better spot now but they both continue to chase the dragon of bad decisions. I was left with my dad by my mother when she decided she was done being a mother so she could concentrate fully on her new marriage and drug addiction. My life experiences caused me to be an adult in a child's body because of all these circumstances. It was easy for everyone, including me, to want to give up. When the only person who ever thought you would be something in life dies abruptly and unexpectedly, it changes the whole wiring layout in your brain. Considering I had never my dad alone, he freely acknowledges that he had little understanding of how to parent a female. It was extremely challenging to get adjusted to. Our relationship was rough for a long time and with all these things happening in my life I began to struggle with depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts. Dealing with mental health issues silently while also trying to be a good student and athlete is something I would never want to experience again. Although it took me six years, three notebooks full of my feelings, and countless sessions of therapy, I am happy to say I have overcome and learned to live with all these struggles. By using my struggles for the greater good, I'm able to help those who had gone through similar experiences. I've learned that just because I lack the resources, money, and support I deserve, that doesn't mean I shouldn't pursue it. I understand what it feels like to be on your own. I didn’t like the cards I was dealt so I decided to reshuffle the deck. Getting an education is the most important thing in my life right now. Being that my mom dropped out in 8th grade and my brothers in 12th, My main goal for my education is to be able finally to breathe. School for me has had big up & downs, I've been on top of Mount Everest, but I've also been in the deepest trenches of the ocean. I’m ready to be the change that my family needs. As of right now, I am attending the Metropolitan State University of Denver and will receive my degree in late 2024, I am both a Community Correction Specialist to be able to help people like my family; and a high school swim coach to be able to help girls like me!

One of my memories of growing up is of living in Pueblo with my mother and my two brothers. I had to endure my family's substance abuse while surviving on assistance and in Section 8 housing. My mother put her addiction to drugs before her obligations, and I had to learn to cope with homelessness and sexual assault. Luckily for me, I had my grandma Darlene. I could talk about her all day, she was my best friend and primarily my mother figure. She is part of the reason I’m the person I am today. She knew I was going to do amazing things with my life. So losing her suddenly to a brain aneurysm was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to experience. Her death is something I still struggle with to this day. It was the start of my second growing-up life. My family reacted in different ways. My brothers began to do even harder drugs and get involved in gangs. These choices have led them down a path of crime which inevitably leads them to prison. I wish I could say they were in a better spot now but they both continue to chase the dragon of bad decisions. I was left with my dad by my mother when she decided she was done being a mother so she could concentrate fully on her new marriage and drug addiction. My life experiences caused me to be an adult in a child's body because of all these circumstances. It was easy for everyone, including me, to want to give up. When the only person who ever thought you would be something in life dies abruptly and unexpectedly, it changes the whole wiring layout in your brain. Considering I had never my dad alone, he freely acknowledges that he had little understanding of how to parent a female. It was extremely challenging to get adjusted to. Our relationship was rough for a long time and with all these things happening in my life I began to struggle with depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts. Dealing with mental health issues silently while also trying to be a good student and athlete is something I would never want to experience again. Although it took me six years, three notebooks full of my feelings, and countless sessions of therapy, I am happy to say I have overcome and learned to live with all these struggles. By using my struggles for the greater good, I'm able to help those who had gone through similar experiences. I've learned that just because I lack the resources, money, and support I deserve, that doesn't mean I shouldn't pursue it. I understand what it feels like to be on your own. I didn’t like the cards I was dealt so I decided to reshuffle the deck. Getting an education is the most important thing in my life right now. Being that my mom dropped out in 8th grade and my brothers in 12th, My main goal for my education is to be able finally to breathe. School for me has had big up & downs, I've been on top of Mount Everest, but I've also been in the deepest trenches of the ocean. I’m ready to be the change that my family needs. As of right now, I am attending the Metropolitan State University of Denver and will receive my degree in late 2024, I am both a Community Correction Specialist to be able to help people like my family; and a high school swim coach to be able to help girls like me.

One of my memories of growing up is of living in Pueblo with my mother and my two brothers. I had to endure my family's substance abuse while surviving on assistance and in Section 8 housing. My mother put her addiction to drugs before her obligations, and I had to learn to cope with homelessness and sexual assault. Luckily for me, I had my grandma Darlene. I could talk about her all day, she was my best friend and primarily my mother figure. She is part of the reason I’m the person I am today. She knew I was going to do amazing things with my life. So losing her suddenly to a brain aneurysm was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to experience. Her death is something I still struggle with to this day. It was the start of my second growing-up life. My family reacted in different ways. My brothers began to do even harder drugs and get involved in gangs. These choices have led them down a path of crime which inevitably leads them to prison. I wish I could say they were in a better spot now but they both continue to chase the dragon of bad decisions. I was left with my dad by my mother when she decided she was done being a mother so she could concentrate fully on her new marriage and drug addiction. My life experiences caused me to be an adult in a child's body because of all these circumstances. It was easy for everyone, including me, to want to give up. When the only person who ever thought you would be something in life dies abruptly and unexpectedly, it changes the whole wiring layout in your brain. Considering I had never my dad alone, he freely acknowledges that he had little understanding of how to parent a female. It was extremely challenging to get adjusted to. Our relationship was rough for a long time and with all these things happening in my life I began to struggle with depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts. Dealing with mental health issues silently while also trying to be a good student and athlete is something I would never want to experience again. Although it took me six years, three notebooks full of my feelings, and countless sessions of therapy, I am happy to say I have overcome and learned to live with all these struggles. By using my struggles for the greater good, I'm able to help those who had gone through similar experiences. I've learned that just because I lack the resources, money, and support I deserve, that doesn't mean I shouldn't pursue it. I understand what it feels like to be on your own. I didn’t like the cards I was dealt so I decided to reshuffle the deck. Getting an education is the most important thing in my life right now. Being that my mom dropped out in 8th grade and my brothers in 12th, My main goal for my education is to be able finally to breathe. School for me has had big up & downs, I've been on top of Mount Everest, but I've also been in the deepest trenches of the ocean. I’m ready to be the change that my family needs. As of right now, I am attending the Metropolitan State University of Denver and will receive my degree in late 2024, I am both a Community Correction Specialist to be able to help people like my family; and a high school swim coach to be able to help girls like me.

One of my memories of growing up is of living in Pueblo with my mother and my two brothers. I had to endure my family's substance abuse while surviving on assistance and in Section 8 housing. My mother put her addiction to drugs before her obligations, and I had to learn to cope with homelessness and sexual assault. Luckily for me, I had my grandma Darlene. I could talk about her all day, she was my best friend and primarily my mother figure. She is part of the reason I’m the person I am today. She knew I was going to do amazing things with my life. So losing her suddenly to a brain aneurysm was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to experience. Her death is something I still struggle with to this day. It was the start of my second growing-up life. My family reacted in different ways. My brothers began to do even harder drugs and get involved in gangs. These choices have led them down a path of crime which inevitably leads them to prison. I wish I could say they were in a better spot now but they both continue to chase the dragon of bad decisions. I was left with my dad by my mother when she decided she was done being a mother so she could concentrate fully on her new marriage and drug addiction. My life experiences caused me to be an adult in a child's body because of all these circumstances. It was easy for everyone, including me, to want to give up. When the only person who ever thought you would be something in life dies abruptly and unexpectedly, it changes the whole wiring layout in your brain. Considering I had never my dad alone, he freely acknowledges that he had little understanding of how to parent a female. It was extremely challenging to get adjusted to. Our relationship was rough for a long time and with all these things happening in my life I began to struggle with depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts. Dealing with mental health issues silently while also trying to be a good student and athlete is something I would never want to experience again. Although it took me six years, three notebooks full of my feelings, and countless sessions of therapy, I am happy to say I have overcome and learned to live with all these struggles. By using my struggles for the greater good, I'm able to help those who had gone through similar experiences. I've learned that just because I lack the resources, money, and support I deserve, that doesn't mean I shouldn't pursue it. I understand what it feels like to be on your own. I didn’t like the cards I was dealt so I decided to reshuffle the deck. Getting an education is the most important thing in my life right now. Being that my mom dropped out in 8th grade and my brothers in 12th, My main goal for my education is to be able finally to breathe. School for me has had big up & downs, I've been on top of Mount Everest, but I've also been in the deepest trenches of the ocean. I’m ready to be the change that my family needs. As of right now, I am attending the Metropolitan State University of Denver and will receive my degree in late 2024, I am both a Community Correction Specialist to be able to help people like my family; and a high school swim coach to be able to help girls like me!

One of my memories of growing up is of living in Pueblo with my mother and my two brothers. I had to endure my family's substance abuse while surviving on assistance and in Section 8 housing. My mother put her addiction to drugs before her obligations, and I had to learn to cope with homelessness and sexual assault. Luckily for me, I had my grandma Darlene. I could talk about her all day, she was my best friend and primarily my mother figure. She is part of the reason I’m the person I am today. She knew I was going to do amazing things with my life. So losing her suddenly to a brain aneurysm was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to experience. Her death is something I still struggle with to this day. It was the start of my second growing-up life. My family reacted in different ways. My brothers began to do even harder drugs and get involved in gangs. These choices have led them down a path of crime which inevitably leads them to prison. I wish I could say they were in a better spot now but they both continue to chase the dragon of bad decisions. I was left with my dad by my mother when she decided she was done being a mother so she could concentrate fully on her new marriage and drug addiction. My life experiences caused me to be an adult in a child's body because of all these circumstances. It was easy for everyone, including me, to want to give up. When the only person who ever thought you would be something in life dies abruptly and unexpectedly, it changes the whole wiring layout in your brain. Considering I had never my dad alone, he freely acknowledges that he had little understanding of how to parent a female. It was extremely challenging to get adjusted to. Our relationship was rough for a long time and with all these things happening in my life I began to struggle with depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts. Dealing with mental health issues silently while also trying to be a good student and athlete is something I would never want to experience again. Although it took me six years, three notebooks full of my feelings, and countless sessions of therapy, I am happy to say I have overcome and learned to live with all these struggles. By using my struggles for the greater good, I'm able to help those who had gone through similar experiences. I've learned that just because I lack the resources, money, and support I deserve, that doesn't mean I shouldn't pursue it. I understand what it feels like to be on your own. I didn’t like the cards I was dealt so I decided to reshuffle the deck. Getting an education is the most important thing in my life right now. Being that my mom dropped out in 8th grade and my brothers in 12th, My main goal for my education is to be able finally to breathe. School for me has had big up & downs, I've been on top of Mount Everest, but I've also been in the deepest trenches of the ocean. I’m ready to be the change that my family needs. As of right now, I am attending the Metropolitan State University of Denver and will receive my degree in late 2024, I am both a Community Correction Specialist to be able to help people like my family; and a high school swim coach to be able to help girls like me!

One of my memories of growing up is of living in Pueblo with my mother and my two brothers. I had to endure my family's substance abuse while surviving on assistance and in Section 8 housing. My mother put her addiction to drugs before her obligations, and I had to learn to cope with homelessness and sexual assault. Luckily for me, I had my grandma Darlene. I could talk about her all day, she was my best friend and primarily my mother figure. She is part of the reason I’m the person I am today. She knew I was going to do amazing things with my life. So losing her suddenly to a brain aneurysm was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to experience. Her death is something I still struggle with to this day. It was the start of my second growing-up life. My family reacted in different ways. My brothers began to do even harder drugs and get involved in gangs. These choices have led them down a path of crime which inevitably leads them to prison. I wish I could say they were in a better spot now but they both continue to chase the dragon of bad decisions. I was left with my dad by my mother when she decided she was done being a mother so she could concentrate fully on her new marriage and drug addiction. My life experiences caused me to be an adult in a child's body because of all these circumstances. It was easy for everyone, including me, to want to give up. When the only person who ever thought you would be something in life dies abruptly and unexpectedly, it changes the whole wiring layout in your brain. Considering I had never my dad alone, he freely acknowledges that he had little understanding of how to parent a female. It was extremely challenging to get adjusted to. Our relationship was rough for a long time and with all these things happening in my life I began to struggle with depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts. Dealing with mental health issues silently while also trying to be a good student and athlete is something I would never want to experience again. Although it took me six years, three notebooks full of my feelings, and countless sessions of therapy, I am happy to say I have overcome and learned to live with all these struggles. By using my struggles for the greater good, I'm able to help those who had gone through similar experiences. I've learned that just because I lack the resources, money, and support I deserve, that doesn't mean I shouldn't pursue it. I understand what it feels like to be on your own. I didn’t like the cards I was dealt so I decided to reshuffle the deck. Getting an education is the most important thing in my life right now. Being that my mom dropped out in 8th grade and my brothers in 12th, My main goal for my education is to be able finally to breathe. School for me has had big up & downs, I've been on top of Mount Everest, but I've also been in the deepest trenches of the ocean. I’m ready to be the change that my family needs. As of right now, I am attending the Metropolitan State University of Denver and will receive my degree in late 2024, I am both a Community Correction Specialist to be able to help people like my family; and a high school swim coach to be able to help girls like

One of my memories of growing up is of living in Pueblo with my mother and my two brothers. I had to endure my family's substance abuse while surviving on assistance and in Section 8 housing. My mother put her addiction to drugs before her obligations, and I had to learn to cope with homelessness and sexual assault. Luckily for me, I had my grandma Darlene. I could talk about her all day, she was my best friend and primarily my mother figure. She is part of the reason I’m the person I am today. She knew I was going to do amazing things with my life. So losing her suddenly to a brain aneurysm was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to experience. Her death is something I still struggle with to this day. It was the start of my second growing-up life. My family reacted in different ways. My brothers began to do even harder drugs and get involved in gangs. These choices have led them down a path of crime which inevitably leads them to prison. I wish I could say they were in a better spot now but they both continue to chase the dragon of bad decisions. I was left with my dad by my mother when she decided she was done being a mother so she could concentrate fully on her new marriage and drug addiction. My life experiences caused me to be an adult in a child's body because of all these circumstances. It was easy for everyone, including me, to want to give up. When the only person who ever thought you would be something in life dies abruptly and unexpectedly, it changes the whole wiring layout in your brain. Considering I had never my dad alone, he freely acknowledges that he had little understanding of how to parent a female. It was extremely challenging to get adjusted to. Our relationship was rough for a long time and with all these things happening in my life I began to struggle with depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts. Dealing with mental health issues silently while also trying to be a good student and athlete is something I would never want to experience again. Although it took me six years, three notebooks full of my feelings, and countless sessions of therapy, I am happy to say I have overcome and learned to live with all these struggles. By using my struggles for the greater good, I'm able to help those who had gone through similar experiences. I've learned that just because I lack the resources, money, and support I deserve, that doesn't mean I shouldn't pursue it. I understand what it feels like to be on your own. I didn’t like the cards I was dealt so I decided to reshuffle the deck. Getting an education is the most important thing in my life right now. Being that my mom dropped out in 8th grade and my brothers in 12th, My main goal for my education is to be able finally to breathe. School for me has had big up & downs, I've been on top of Mount Everest, but I've also been in the deepest trenches of the ocean. I’m ready to be the change that my family needs. As of right now, I am attending the Metropolitan State University of Denver and will receive my degree in late 2024, I am both a Community Correction Specialist to be able to help people like my family; and a high school swim coach to be able to help girls like me!

One of my memories of growing up is of living in Pueblo with my mother and my two brothers. I had to endure my family's substance abuse while surviving on assistance and in Section 8 housing. My mother put her addiction to drugs before her obligations, and I had to learn to cope with homelessness and sexual assault. Luckily for me, I had my grandma Darlene. I could talk about her all day, she was my best friend and primarily my mother figure. She is part of the reason I’m the person I am today. She knew I was going to do amazing things with my life. So losing her suddenly to a brain aneurysm was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to experience. Her death is something I still struggle with to this day. It was the start of my second growing-up life. My family reacted in different ways. My brothers began to do even harder drugs and get involved in gangs. These choices have led them down a path of crime which inevitably leads them to prison. I wish I could say they were in a better spot now but they both continue to chase the dragon of bad decisions. I was left with my dad by my mother when she decided she was done being a mother so she could concentrate fully on her new marriage and drug addiction. My life experiences caused me to be an adult in a child's body because of all these circumstances. It was easy for everyone, including me, to want to give up. When the only person who ever thought you would be something in life dies abruptly and unexpectedly, it changes the whole wiring layout in your brain. Considering I had never my dad alone, he freely acknowledges that he had little understanding of how to parent a female. It was extremely challenging to get adjusted to. Our relationship was rough for a long time and with all these things happening in my life I began to struggle with depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts. Dealing with mental health issues silently while also trying to be a good student and athlete is something I would never want to experience again. Although it took me six years, three notebooks full of my feelings, and countless sessions of therapy, I am happy to say I have overcome and learned to live with all these struggles. By using my struggles for the greater good, I'm able to help those who had gone through similar experiences. I've learned that just because I lack the resources, money, and support I deserve, that doesn't mean I shouldn't pursue it. I understand what it feels like to be on your own. I didn’t like the cards I was dealt so I decided to reshuffle the deck. Getting an education is the most important thing in my life right now. Being that my mom dropped out in 8th grade and my brothers in 12th, My main goal for my education is to be able finally to breathe. School for me has had big up & downs, I've been on top of Mount Everest, but I've also been in the deepest trenches of the ocean. I’m ready to be the change that my family needs. As of right now, I am attending the Metropolitan State University of Denver and will receive my degree in late 2024, I am both a Community Correction Specialist to be able to help people like my family; and a high school swim coach to be able to help girls like me!

One of my memories of growing up is of living in Pueblo with my mother and my two brothers. I had to endure my family's substance abuse while surviving on assistance and in Section 8 housing. My mother put her addiction to drugs before her obligations, and I had to learn to cope with homelessness and sexual assault. Luckily for me, I had my grandma Darlene. I could talk about her all day, she was my best friend and primarily my mother figure. She is part of the reason I’m the person I am today. She knew I was going to do amazing things with my life. So losing her suddenly to a brain aneurysm was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to experience. Her death is something I still struggle with to this day. It was the start of my second growing-up life. My family reacted in different ways. My brothers began to do even harder drugs and get involved in gangs. These choices have led them down a path of crime which inevitably leads them to prison. I wish I could say they were in a better spot now but they both continue to chase the dragon of bad decisions. I was left with my dad by my mother when she decided she was done being a mother so she could concentrate fully on her new marriage and drug addiction. My life experiences caused me to be an adult in a child's body because of all these circumstances. It was easy for everyone, including me, to want to give up. When the only person who ever thought you would be something in life dies abruptly and unexpectedly, it changes the whole wiring layout in your brain. Considering I had never my dad alone, he freely acknowledges that he had little understanding of how to parent a female. It was extremely challenging to get adjusted to. Our relationship was rough for a long time and with all these things happening in my life I began to struggle with depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts. Dealing with mental health issues silently while also trying to be a good student and athlete is something I would never want to experience again. Although it took me six years, three notebooks full of my feelings, and countless sessions of therapy, I am happy to say I have overcome and learned to live with all these struggles. By using my struggles for the greater good, I'm able to help those who had gone through similar experiences. I've learned that just because I lack the resources, money, and support I deserve, that doesn't mean I shouldn't pursue it. I understand what it feels like to be on your own. I didn’t like the cards I was dealt so I decided to reshuffle the deck. Getting an education is the most important thing in my life right now. Being that my mom dropped out in 8th grade and my brothers in 12th, My main goal for my education is to be able finally to breathe. School for me has had big up & downs, I've been on top of Mount Everest, but I've also been in the deepest trenches of the ocean. I’m ready to be the change that my family needs. As of right now, I am attending the Metropolitan State University of Denver and will receive my degree in late 2024, I am both a Community Correction Specialist to be able to help people like my family; and a high school swim coach to be able to help girls like me.

One of my memories of growing up is of living in Pueblo with my mother and my two brothers. I had to endure my family's substance abuse while surviving on assistance and in Section 8 housing. My mother put her addiction to drugs before her obligations, and I had to learn to cope with homelessness and sexual assault. Luckily for me, I had my grandma Darlene. I could talk about her all day, she was my best friend and primarily my mother figure. She is part of the reason I’m the person I am today. She knew I was going to do amazing things with my life. So losing her suddenly to a brain aneurysm was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to experience. Her death is something I still struggle with to this day. It was the start of my second growing-up life. My family reacted in different ways. My brothers began to do even harder drugs and get involved in gangs. These choices have led them down a path of crime which inevitably leads them to prison. I wish I could say they were in a better spot now but they both continue to chase the dragon of bad decisions. I was left with my dad by my mother when she decided she was done being a mother so she could concentrate fully on her new marriage and drug addiction. My life experiences caused me to be an adult in a child's body because of all these circumstances. It was easy for everyone, including me, to want to give up. When the only person who ever thought you would be something in life dies abruptly and unexpectedly, it changes the whole wiring layout in your brain. Considering I had never my dad alone, he freely acknowledges that he had little understanding of how to parent a female. It was extremely challenging to get adjusted to. Our relationship was rough for a long time and with all these things happening in my life I began to struggle with depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts. Dealing with mental health issues silently while also trying to be a good student and athlete is something I would never want to experience again. Although it took me six years, three notebooks full of my feelings, and countless sessions of therapy, I am happy to say I have overcome and learned to live with all these struggles. By using my struggles for the greater good, I'm able to help those who had gone through similar experiences. I've learned that just because I lack the resources, money, and support I deserve, that doesn't mean I shouldn't pursue it. I understand what it feels like to be on your own. I didn’t like the cards I was dealt so I decided to reshuffle the deck. Getting an education is the most important thing in my life right now. Being that my mom dropped out in 8th grade and my brothers in 12th, My main goal for my education is to be able finally to breathe. School for me has had big up & downs, I've been on top of Mount Everest, but I've also been in the deepest trenches of the ocean. I’m ready to be the change that my family needs. As of right now, I am attending the Metropolitan State University of Denver and will receive my degree in late 2024, I am both a Community Correction Specialist to be able to help people like my family; and a high school swim coach to be able to help girls like me.

One of my memories of growing up is of living in Pueblo with my mother and my two brothers. I had to endure my family's substance abuse while surviving on assistance and in Section 8 housing. My mother put her addiction to drugs before her obligations, and I had to learn to cope with homelessness and sexual assault. Luckily for me, I had my grandma Darlene. I could talk about her all day, she was my best friend and primarily my mother figure. She is part of the reason I’m the person I am today. She knew I was going to do amazing things with my life. So losing her suddenly to a brain aneurysm was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to experience. Her death is something I still struggle with to this day. It was the start of my second growing-up life. My family reacted in different ways. My brothers began to do even harder drugs and get involved in gangs. These choices have led them down a path of crime which inevitably leads them to prison. I wish I could say they were in a better spot now but they both continue to chase the dragon of bad decisions. I was left with my dad by my mother when she decided she was done being a mother so she could concentrate fully on her new marriage and drug addiction. My life experiences caused me to be an adult in a child's body because of all these circumstances. It was easy for everyone, including me, to want to give up. When the only person who ever thought you would be something in life dies abruptly and unexpectedly, it changes the whole wiring layout in your brain. Considering I had never my dad alone, he freely acknowledges that he had little understanding of how to parent a female. It was extremely challenging to get adjusted to. Our relationship was rough for a long time and with all these things happening in my life I began to struggle with depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts. Dealing with mental health issues silently while also trying to be a good student and athlete is something I would never want to experience again. Although it took me six years, three notebooks full of my feelings, and countless sessions of therapy, I am happy to say I have overcome and learned to live with all these struggles. By using my struggles for the greater good, I'm able to help those who had gone through similar experiences. I've learned that just because I lack the resources, money, and support I deserve, that doesn't mean I shouldn't pursue it. I understand what it feels like to be on your own. I didn’t like the cards I was dealt so I decided to reshuffle the deck. Getting an education is the most important thing in my life right now. Being that my mom dropped out in 8th grade and my brothers in 12th, My main goal for my education is to be able finally to breathe. School for me has had big up & downs, I've been on top of Mount Everest, but I've also been in the deepest trenches of the ocean. I’m ready to be the change that my family needs. As of right now, I am attending the Metropolitan State University of Denver and will receive my degree in late 2024, I am both a Community Correction Specialist to be able to help people like my family; and a high school swim coach to be able to help girls like me.

One of my memories of growing up is of living in Pueblo with my mother and my two brothers. I had to endure my family's substance abuse while surviving on assistance and in Section 8 housing. My mother put her addiction to drugs before her obligations, and I had to learn to cope with homelessness and sexual assault. Luckily for me, I had my grandma Darlene. I could talk about her all day, she was my best friend and primarily my mother figure. She is part of the reason I’m the person I am today. She knew I was going to do amazing things with my life. So losing her suddenly to a brain aneurysm was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to experience. Her death is something I still struggle with to this day. It was the start of my second growing-up life. My family reacted in different ways. My brothers began to do even harder drugs and get involved in gangs. These choices have led them down a path of crime which inevitably leads them to prison. I wish I could say they were in a better spot now but they both continue to chase the dragon of bad decisions. I was left with my dad by my mother when she decided she was done being a mother so she could concentrate fully on her new marriage and drug addiction. My life experiences caused me to be an adult in a child's body because of all these circumstances. It was easy for everyone, including me, to want to give up. When the only person who ever thought you would be something in life dies abruptly and unexpectedly, it changes the whole wiring layout in your brain. Considering all the ways my life just changed and the fact I was coming to terms with being bisexual in the 6th grade, I began to struggle with depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts. On one hand I was a devoute catholic due to my father's new house rules and the other a deeply closeted queer preteen. Dealing with mental health issues silently while also trying to be a good student and athlete is something I would never want to experience again. Although it took me six years, three notebooks full of my feelings, and countless sessions of therapy, I am happy to say I have overcome and learned to live with all these struggles. By using my struggles for the greater good, I'm able to help those who had gone through similar experiences. I've learned that just because I lack the resources, money, and support I deserve, that doesn't mean I shouldn't pursue it. I understand what it feels like to be on your own. I didn’t like the cards I was dealt so I decided to reshuffle the deck. Getting an education is the most important thing in my life right now. Being that my mom dropped out in 8th grade and my brothers in 12th, My main goal for my education is to be able finally to breathe. School for me has had big up & downs, I've been on top of Mount Everest, but I've also been in the deepest trenches of the ocean. I’m ready to be the change that my family needs. As of right now, I am attending the Metropolitan State University of Denver and will receive my degree in late 2024, I am both a Community Correction Specialist to be able to help people like my family; and a high school swim coach to be able to help girls like me.

One of my memories of growing up is of living in Pueblo with my mother and my two brothers. I had to endure my family's substance abuse while surviving on assistance and in Section 8 housing. My mother put her addiction to drugs before her obligations, and I had to learn to cope with homelessness and sexual assault. Luckily for me, I had my grandma Darlene. I could talk about her all day, she was my best friend and primarily my mother figure. She is part of the reason I’m the person I am today. She knew I was going to do amazing things with my life. So losing her suddenly to a brain aneurysm was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to experience. Her death is something I still struggle with to this day. It was the start of my second growing-up life. My family reacted in different ways. My brothers began to do even harder drugs and get involved in gangs. These choices have led them down a path of crime which inevitably leads them to prison. I wish I could say they were in a better spot now but they both continue to chase the dragon of bad decisions. I was left with my dad by my mother when she decided she was done being a mother so she could concentrate fully on her new marriage and drug addiction. My life experiences caused me to be an adult in a child's body because of all these circumstances. It was easy for everyone, including me, to want to give up. When the only person who ever thought you would be something in life dies abruptly and unexpectedly, it changes the whole wiring layout in your brain. Considering I had never my dad alone, he freely acknowledges that he had little understanding of how to parent a female. It was extremely challenging to get adjusted to. Our relationship was rough for a long time and with all these things happening in my life I began to struggle with depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts. Dealing with mental health issues silently while also trying to be a good student and athlete is something I would never want to experience again. Although it took me six years, three notebooks full of my feelings, and countless sessions of therapy, I am happy to say I have overcome and learned to live with all these struggles. By using my struggles for the greater good, I'm able to help those who had gone through similar experiences. I've learned that just because I lack the resources, money, and support I deserve, that doesn't mean I shouldn't pursue it. I understand what it feels like to be on your own. I didn’t like the cards I was dealt so I decided to reshuffle the deck. Getting an education is the most important thing in my life right now. Being that my mom dropped out in 8th grade and my brothers in 12th, My main goal for my education is to be able finally to breathe. School for me has had big up & downs, I've been on top of Mount Everest, but I've also been in the deepest trenches of the ocean. I’m ready to be the change that my family needs. As of right now, I am attending the Metropolitan State University of Denver and will receive my degree in late 2024, I am both a Community Correction Specialist to be able to help people like my family; and a high school swim coach to be able to help girls like me.

One of my memories of growing up is of living in Pueblo with my mother and my two brothers. I had to endure my family's substance abuse while surviving on assistance and in Section 8 housing. My mother put her addiction to drugs before her obligations, and I had to learn to cope with homelessness and sexual assault. Luckily for me, I had my grandma Darlene. I could talk about her all day, she was my best friend and primarily my mother figure. She is part of the reason I’m the person I am today. She knew I was going to do amazing things with my life. So losing her suddenly to a brain aneurysm was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to experience. Her death is something I still struggle with to this day. It was the start of my second growing-up life. My family reacted in different ways. My brothers began to do even harder drugs and get involved in gangs. These choices have led them down a path of crime which inevitably leads them to prison. I wish I could say they were in a better spot now but they both continue to chase the dragon of bad decisions. I was left with my dad by my mother when she decided she was done being a mother so she could concentrate fully on her new marriage and drug addiction. My life experiences caused me to be an adult in a child's body because of all these circumstances. It was easy for everyone, including me, to want to give up. When the only person who ever thought you would be something in life dies abruptly and unexpectedly, it changes the whole wiring layout in your brain. Considering I had never my dad alone, he freely acknowledges that he had little understanding of how to parent a female. It was extremely challenging to get adjusted to. Our relationship was rough for a long time and with all these things happening in my life I began to struggle with depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts. Dealing with mental health issues silently while also trying to be a good student and athlete is something I would never want to experience again. Although it took me six years, three notebooks full of my feelings, and countless sessions of therapy, I am happy to say I have overcome and learned to live with all these struggles. By using my struggles for the greater good, I'm able to help those who had gone through similar experiences. I've learned that just because I lack the resources, money, and support I deserve, that doesn't mean I shouldn't pursue it. I understand what it feels like to be on your own. I didn’t like the cards I was dealt so I decided to reshuffle the deck. Getting an education is the most important thing in my life right now. Being that my mom dropped out in 8th grade and my brothers in 12th, My main goal for my education is to be able finally to breathe. School for me has had big up & downs, I've been on top of Mount Everest, but I've also been in the deepest trenches of the ocean. I’m ready to be the change that my family needs. As of right now, I am attending the Metropolitan State University of Denver and will receive my degree in late 2024, I am both a Community Correction Specialist to be able to help people like my family; and a high school swim coach to be able to help girls like me.

One of my memories of growing up is of living in Pueblo with my mother and my two brothers. I had to endure my family's substance abuse while surviving on assistance and in Section 8 housing. My mother put her addiction to drugs before her obligations, and I had to learn to cope with homelessness and sexual assault. Luckily for me, I had my grandma Darlene. I could talk about her all day, she was my best friend and primarily my mother figure. She is part of the reason I’m the person I am today. She knew I was going to do amazing things with my life. So losing her suddenly to a brain aneurysm was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to experience. Her death is something I still struggle with to this day. It was the start of my second growing-up life. My family reacted in different ways. My brothers began to do even harder drugs and get involved in gangs. These choices have led them down a path of crime which inevitably leads them to prison. I wish I could say they were in a better spot now but they both continue to chase the dragon of bad decisions. I was left with my dad by my mother when she decided she was done being a mother so she could concentrate fully on her new marriage and drug addiction. My life experiences caused me to be an adult in a child's body because of all these circumstances. It was easy for everyone, including me, to want to give up. When the only person who ever thought you would be something in life dies abruptly and unexpectedly, it changes the whole wiring layout in your brain. Considering I had never my dad alone, he freely acknowledges that he had little understanding of how to parent a female. It was extremely challenging to get adjusted to. Our relationship was rough for a long time and with all these things happening in my life I began to struggle with depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts. Dealing with mental health issues silently while also trying to be a good student and athlete is something I would never want to experience again. Although it took me six years, three notebooks full of my feelings, and countless sessions of therapy, I am happy to say I have overcome and learned to live with all these struggles. By using my struggles for the greater good, I'm able to help those who had gone through similar experiences. I've learned that just because I lack the resources, money, and support I deserve, that doesn't mean I shouldn't pursue it. I understand what it feels like to be on your own. I didn’t like the cards I was dealt so I decided to reshuffle the deck. Getting an education is the most important thing in my life right now. Being that my mom dropped out in 8th grade and my brothers in 12th, My main goal for my education is to be able finally to breathe. School for me has had big up & downs, I've been on top of Mount Everest, but I've also been in the deepest trenches of the ocean. I’m ready to be the change that my family needs. As of right now, I am attending the Metropolitan State University of Denver and will receive my degree in late 2024, I am both a Community Correction Specialist to be able to help people like my family; and a high school swim coach to be able to help girls like me.

One of my memories of growing up is of living in Pueblo with my mother and my two brothers. I had to endure my family's substance abuse while surviving on assistance and in Section 8 housing. My mother put her addiction to drugs before her obligations, and I had to learn to cope with homelessness and sexual assault. Luckily for me, I had my grandma Darlene. I could talk about her all day, she was my best friend and primarily my mother figure. She is part of the reason I’m the person I am today. She knew I was going to do amazing things with my life. So losing her suddenly to a brain aneurysm was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to experience. Her death is something I still struggle with to this day. It was the start of my second growing-up life. My family reacted in different ways. My brothers began to do even harder drugs and get involved in gangs. These choices have led them down a path of crime which inevitably leads them to prison. I wish I could say they were in a better spot now but they both continue to chase the dragon of bad decisions. I was left with my dad by my mother when she decided she was done being a mother so she could concentrate fully on her new marriage and drug addiction. My life experiences caused me to be an adult in a child's body because of all these circumstances. It was easy for everyone, including me, to want to give up. When the only person who ever thought you would be something in life dies abruptly and unexpectedly, it changes the whole wiring layout in your brain. Considering I had never my dad alone, he freely acknowledges that he had little understanding of how to parent a female. It was extremely challenging to get adjusted to. Our relationship was rough for a long time and with all these things happening in my life I began to struggle with depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts. Dealing with mental health issues silently while also trying to be a good student and athlete is something I would never want to experience again. Although it took me six years, three notebooks full of my feelings, and countless sessions of therapy, I am happy to say I have overcome and learned to live with all these struggles. By using my struggles for the greater good, I'm able to help those who had gone through similar experiences. I've learned that just because I lack the resources, money, and support I deserve, that doesn't mean I shouldn't pursue it. I understand what it feels like to be on your own. I didn’t like the cards I was dealt so I decided to reshuffle the deck. Getting an education is the most important thing in my life right now. Being that my mom dropped out in 8th grade and my brothers in 12th, My main goal for my education is to be able finally to breathe. School for me has had big up & downs, I've been on top of Mount Everest, but I've also been in the deepest trenches of the ocean. I’m ready to be the change that my family needs. As of right now, I am attending the Metropolitan State University of Denver and will receive my degree in late 2024, I am both a Community Correction Specialist to be able to help people like my family; and a high school swim coach to be able to help girls like me.

One of my memories of growing up is of living in Pueblo with my mother and my two brothers. I had to endure my family's substance abuse while surviving on assistance and in Section 8 housing. My mother put her addiction to drugs before her obligations, and I had to learn to cope with homelessness and sexual assault. Luckily for me, I had my grandma Darlene. I could talk about her all day, she was my best friend and primarily my mother figure. She is part of the reason I’m the person I am today. She knew I was going to do amazing things with my life. So losing her suddenly to a brain aneurysm was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to experience. Her death is something I still struggle with to this day. It was the start of my second growing-up life. My family reacted in different ways. My brothers began to do even harder drugs and get involved in gangs. These choices have led them down a path of crime which inevitably leads them to prison. I wish I could say they were in a better spot now but they both continue to chase the dragon of bad decisions. I was left with my dad by my mother when she decided she was done being a mother so she could concentrate fully on her new marriage and drug addiction. My life experiences caused me to be an adult in a child's body because of all these circumstances. It was easy for everyone, including me, to want to give up. When the only person who ever thought you would be something in life dies abruptly and unexpectedly, it changes the whole wiring layout in your brain. Considering I had never my dad alone, he freely acknowledges that he had little understanding of how to parent a female. It was extremely challenging to get adjusted to. Our relationship was rough for a long time and with all these things happening in my life I began to struggle with depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts. Dealing with mental health issues silently while also trying to be a good student and athlete is something I would never want to experience again. Although it took me six years, three notebooks full of my feelings, and countless sessions of therapy, I am happy to say I have overcome and learned to live with all these struggles. By using my struggles for the greater good, I'm able to help those who had gone through similar experiences. I've learned that just because I lack the resources, money, and support I deserve, that doesn't mean I shouldn't pursue it. I understand what it feels like to be on your own. I didn’t like the cards I was dealt so I decided to reshuffle the deck. Getting an education is the most important thing in my life right now. Being that my mom dropped out in 8th grade and my brothers in 12th, My main goal for my education is to be able finally to breathe. School for me has had big up & downs, I've been on top of Mount Everest, but I've also been in the deepest trenches of the ocean. I’m ready to be the change that my family needs. As of right now, I am attending the Metropolitan State University of Denver and will receive my degree in late 2024, I am both a Community Correction Specialist to be able to help people like my family; and a high school swim coach to be able to help girls like me.

One of my memories of growing up is of living in Pueblo with my mother and my two brothers. I had to endure my family's substance abuse while surviving on assistance and in Section 8 housing. My mother put her addiction to drugs before her obligations, and I had to learn to cope with homelessness and sexual assault. Luckily for me, I had my grandma Darlene. I could talk about her all day, she was my best friend and primarily my mother figure. She is part of the reason I’m the person I am today. She knew I was going to do amazing things with my life. So losing her suddenly to a brain aneurysm was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to experience. Her death is something I still struggle with to this day. It was the start of my second growing-up life. My family reacted in different ways. My brothers began to do even harder drugs and get involved in gangs. These choices have led them down a path of crime which inevitably leads them to prison. I wish I could say they were in a better spot now but they both continue to chase the dragon of bad decisions. I was left with my dad by my mother when she decided she was done being a mother so she could concentrate fully on her new marriage and drug addiction. My life experiences caused me to be an adult in a child's body because of all these circumstances. It was easy for everyone, including me, to want to give up. When the only person who ever thought you would be something in life dies abruptly and unexpectedly, it changes the whole wiring layout in your brain. Considering I had never my dad alone, he freely acknowledges that he had little understanding of how to parent a female. It was extremely challenging to get adjusted to. Our relationship was rough for a long time and with all these things happening in my life I began to struggle with depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts. Dealing with mental health issues silently while also trying to be a good student and athlete is something I would never want to experience again. Although it took me six years, three notebooks full of my feelings, and countless sessions of therapy, I am happy to say I have overcome and learned to live with all these struggles. By using my struggles for the greater good, I'm able to help those who had gone through similar experiences. I've learned that just because I lack the resources, money, and support I deserve, that doesn't mean I shouldn't pursue it. I understand what it feels like to be on your own. I didn’t like the cards I was dealt so I decided to reshuffle the deck. Getting an education is the most important thing in my life right now. Being that my mom dropped out in 8th grade and my brothers in 12th, My main goal for my education is to be able finally to breathe. School for me has had big up & downs, I've been on top of Mount Everest, but I've also been in the deepest trenches of the ocean. I’m ready to be the change that my family needs. As of right now, I am attending the Metropolitan State University of Denver and will receive my degree in late 2024, I am both a Community Correction Specialist to be able to help people like my family; and a high school swim coach to be able to help girls like me.

the dream version of my future self is happy, loved, and proud. I will embody these words in all their forms and give them back to the world in return. I will look back on my life and know I upheld these 3 words.

One of my memories of growing up is of living in Pueblo with my mother and my two brothers. I had to endure my family's substance abuse while surviving on assistance and in Section 8 housing. My mother put her addiction to drugs before her obligations, and I had to learn to cope with homelessness and sexual assault. Luckily for me, I had my grandma Darlene. I could talk about her all day, she was my best friend and primarily my mother figure. She is part of the reason I’m the person I am today. She knew I was going to do amazing things with my life. So losing her suddenly to a brain aneurysm was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to experience. Her death is something I still struggle with to this day. It was the start of my second growing-up life. My family reacted in different ways. My brothers began to do even harder drugs and get involved in gangs. These choices have led them down a path of crime which inevitably leads them to prison. I wish I could say they were in a better spot now but they both continue to chase the dragon of bad decisions. I was left with my dad by my mother when she decided she was done being a mother so she could concentrate fully on her new marriage and drug addiction. My life experiences caused me to be an adult in a child's body because of all these circumstances. It was easy for everyone, including me, to want to give up. When the only person who ever thought you would be something in life dies abruptly and unexpectedly, it changes the whole wiring layout in your brain. Considering I had never my dad alone, he freely acknowledges that he had little understanding of how to parent a female. It was extremely challenging to get adjusted to. Our relationship was rough for a long time and with all these things happening in my life I began to struggle with depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts. Dealing with mental health issues silently while also trying to be a good student and athlete is something I would never want to experience again. Although it took me six years, three notebooks full of my feelings, and countless sessions of therapy, I am happy to say I have overcome and learned to live with all these struggles. By using my struggles for the greater good, I'm able to help those who had gone through similar experiences. I've learned that just because I lack the resources, money, and support I deserve, that doesn't mean I shouldn't pursue it. I understand what it feels like to be on your own. I didn’t like the cards I was dealt so I decided to reshuffle the deck. Getting an education is the most important thing in my life right now. Being that my mom dropped out in 8th grade and my brothers in 12th, My main goal for my education is to be able finally to breathe. School for me has had big up & downs, I've been on top of Mount Everest, but I've also been in the deepest trenches of the ocean. I’m ready to be the change that my family needs. As of right now, I am attending the Metropolitan State University of Denver and will receive my degree in late 2024, I am both a Community Correction Specialist to be able to help people like my family; and a high school swim coach to be able to help girls like me.

One of my memories of growing up is of living in Pueblo with my mother and my two brothers. I had to endure my family's substance abuse while surviving on assistance and in Section 8 housing. My mother put her addiction to drugs before her obligations, and I had to learn to cope with homelessness and sexual assault. Luckily for me, I had my grandma Darlene. I could talk about her all day, she was my best friend and primarily my mother figure. She is part of the reason I’m the person I am today. She knew I was going to do amazing things with my life. So losing her suddenly to a brain aneurysm was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to experience. Her death is something I still struggle with to this day. It was the start of my second growing-up life. My family reacted in different ways. My brothers began to do even harder drugs and get involved in gangs. These choices have led them down a path of crime which inevitably leads them to prison. I wish I could say they were in a better spot now but they both continue to chase the dragon of bad decisions. I was left with my dad by my mother when she decided she was done being a mother so she could concentrate fully on her new marriage and drug addiction. My life experiences caused me to be an adult in a child's body because of all these circumstances. It was easy for everyone, including me, to want to give up. When the only person who ever thought you would be something in life dies abruptly and unexpectedly, it changes the whole wiring layout in your brain. Considering I had never my dad alone, he freely acknowledges that he had little understanding of how to parent a female. It was extremely challenging to get adjusted to. Our relationship was rough for a long time and with all these things happening in my life I began to struggle with depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts. Dealing with mental health issues silently while also trying to be a good student and athlete is something I would never want to experience again. Although it took me six years, three notebooks full of my feelings, and countless sessions of therapy, I am happy to say I have overcome and learned to live with all these struggles. By using my struggles for the greater good, I'm able to help those who had gone through similar experiences. I've learned that just because I lack the resources, money, and support I deserve, that doesn't mean I shouldn't pursue it. I understand what it feels like to be on your own. I didn’t like the cards I was dealt so I decided to reshuffle the deck. Getting an education is the most important thing in my life right now. Being that my mom dropped out in 8th grade and my brothers in 12th, My main goal for my education is to be able finally to breathe. School for me has had big up & downs, I've been on top of Mount Everest, but I've also been in the deepest trenches of the ocean. I’m ready to be the change that my family needs. As of right now, I am attending the Metropolitan State University of Denver and will receive my degree in late 2024, I am both a Community Correction Specialist to be able to help people like my family; and a high school swim coach to be able to help girls like me.

One of my memories of growing up is of living in Pueblo with my mother and my two brothers. I had to endure my family's substance abuse while surviving on assistance and in Section 8 housing. My mother put her addiction to drugs before her obligations, and I had to learn to cope with homelessness and sexual assault. Luckily for me, I had my grandma Darlene. I could talk about her all day, she was my best friend and primarily my mother figure. She is part of the reason I’m the person I am today. She knew I was going to do amazing things with my life. So losing her suddenly to a brain aneurysm was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to experience. Her death is something I still struggle with to this day. It was the start of my second growing-up life. My family reacted in different ways. My brothers began to do even harder drugs and get involved in gangs. These choices have led them down a path of crime which inevitably leads them to prison. I wish I could say they were in a better spot now but they both continue to chase the dragon of bad decisions. I was left with my dad by my mother when she decided she was done being a mother so she could concentrate fully on her new marriage and drug addiction. My life experiences caused me to be an adult in a child's body because of all these circumstances. It was easy for everyone, including me, to want to give up. When the only person who ever thought you would be something in life dies abruptly and unexpectedly, it changes the whole wiring layout in your brain. Considering I had never my dad alone, he freely acknowledges that he had little understanding of how to parent a female. It was extremely challenging to get adjusted to. Our relationship was rough for a long time and with all these things happening in my life I began to struggle with depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts. Dealing with mental health issues silently while also trying to be a good student and athlete is something I would never want to experience again. Although it took me six years, three notebooks full of my feelings, and countless sessions of therapy, I am happy to say I have overcome and learned to live with all these struggles. By using my struggles for the greater good, I'm able to help those who had gone through similar experiences. I've learned that just because I lack the resources, money, and support I deserve, that doesn't mean I shouldn't pursue it. I understand what it feels like to be on your own. I didn’t like the cards I was dealt so I decided to reshuffle the deck. Getting an education is the most important thing in my life right now. Being that my mom dropped out in 8th grade and my brothers in 12th, My main goal for my education is to be able finally to breathe. School for me has had big up & downs, I've been on top of Mount Everest, but I've also been in the deepest trenches of the ocean. I’m ready to be the change that my family needs. As of right now, I am attending the Metropolitan State University of Denver and will receive my degree in late 2024, I am both a Community Correction Specialist to be able to help people like my family; and a high school swim coach to be able to help girls like me.

One of my memories of growing up is of living in Pueblo with my mother and my two brothers. I had to endure my family's substance abuse while surviving on assistance and in Section 8 housing. My mother put her addiction to drugs before her obligations, and I had to learn to cope with homelessness and sexual assault. Luckily for me, I had my grandma Darlene. I could talk about her all day, she was my best friend and primarily my mother figure. She is part of the reason I’m the person I am today. She knew I was going to do amazing things with my life. So losing her suddenly to a brain aneurysm was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to experience. Her death is something I still struggle with to this day. It was the start of my second growing-up life. My family reacted in different ways. My brothers began to do even harder drugs and get involved in gangs. These choices have led them down a path of crime which inevitably leads them to prison. I wish I could say they were in a better spot now but they both continue to chase the dragon of bad decisions. I was left with my dad by my mother when she decided she was done being a mother so she could concentrate fully on her new marriage and drug addiction. My life experiences caused me to be an adult in a child's body because of all these circumstances. When the only person who ever thought you would be something in life dies abruptly and unexpectedly, it changes the whole wiring layout in your brain. Although it took me six years, three notebooks full of my feelings, and countless sessions of therapy, I am happy to say I have overcome and learned to live with all these struggles. By using my struggles for the greater good, I'm able to help those who had gone through similar experiences. I've learned that just because I lack the resources and support I deserve, that doesn't mean I shouldn't pursue it. I understand what it feels like to be on your own. I didn’t like the cards I was dealt so I decided to reshuffle the deck. Getting an education is the most important thing in my life right now. Being that my mom dropped out in 8th grade and my brothers in 12th, My main goal for my education is to be able finally to breathe. School for me has had big up & downs, I've been on top of Mount Everest, but I've also been in the deepest trenches of the ocean. I’m ready to be the change that my family needs. As of right now, I attend MSU Denver and will receive my degree in late 2024, I am both a Community Correction Specialist to be able to help people like my family; and a high school swim coach to be able to help girls like me.

One of my memories of growing up is of living in Pueblo with my mother and my two brothers. I had to endure my family's substance abuse while surviving on assistance and in Section 8 housing. My mother put her addiction to drugs before her obligations, and I had to learn to cope with homelessness and sexual assault. Luckily for me, I had my grandma Darlene. I could talk about her all day, she was my best friend and primarily my mother figure. She is part of the reason I’m the person I am today. She knew I was going to do amazing things with my life. So losing her suddenly to a brain aneurysm was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to experience. Her death is something I still struggle with to this day. It was the start of my second growing-up life. My family reacted in different ways. My brothers began to do even harder drugs and get involved in gangs. These choices have led them down a path of crime which inevitably leads them to prison. I wish I could say they were in a better spot now but they both continue to chase the dragon of bad decisions. I was left with my dad by my mother when she decided she was done being a mother so she could concentrate fully on her new marriage and drug addiction. My life experiences caused me to be an adult in a child's body because of all these circumstances. It was easy for everyone, including me, to want to give up. When the only person who ever thought you would be something in life dies abruptly and unexpectedly, it changes the whole wiring layout in your brain. Considering I had never my dad alone, he freely acknowledges that he had little understanding of how to parent a female. It was extremely challenging to get adjusted to. Our relationship was rough for a long time and with all these things happening in my life I began to struggle with depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts. Dealing with mental health issues silently while also trying to be a good student and athlete is something I would never want to experience again. Although it took me six years, three notebooks full of my feelings, and countless sessions of therapy, I am happy to say I have overcome and learned to live with all these struggles. By using my struggles for the greater good, I'm able to help those who had gone through similar experiences. I've learned that just because I lack the resources, money, and support I deserve, that doesn't mean I shouldn't pursue it. I understand what it feels like to be on your own. I didn’t like the cards I was dealt so I decided to reshuffle the deck. Getting an education is the most important thing in my life right now. Being that my mom dropped out in 8th grade and my brothers in 12th, My main goal for my education is to be able finally to breathe. School for me has had big up & downs, I've been on top of Mount Everest, but I've also been in the deepest trenches of the ocean. I’m ready to be the change that my family needs. As of right now, I am attending the Metropolitan State University of Denver and will receive my degree in late 2024, I am both a Community Correction Specialist to be able to help people like my family; and a high school swim coach to be able to help girls like me.

One of my memories of growing up is of living in Pueblo with my mother and my two brothers. I had to endure my family's substance abuse while surviving on assistance and in Section 8 housing. My mother put her addiction to drugs before her obligations, and I had to learn to cope with homelessness and sexual assault. Luckily for me, I had my grandma Darlene. I could talk about her all day, she was my best friend and primarily my mother figure. She is part of the reason I’m the person I am today. She knew I was going to do amazing things with my life. So losing her suddenly to a brain aneurysm was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to experience. Her death is something I still struggle with to this day. It was the start of my second growing-up life. My family reacted in different ways. My brothers began to do even harder drugs and get involved in gangs. These choices have led them down a path of crime which inevitably leads them to prison. I wish I could say they were in a better spot now but they both continue to chase the dragon of bad decisions. I was left with my dad by my mother when she decided she was done being a mother so she could concentrate fully on her new marriage and drug addiction. My life experiences caused me to be an adult in a child's body because of all these circumstances. It was easy for everyone, including me, to want to give up. When the only person who ever thought you would be something in life dies abruptly and unexpectedly, it changes the whole wiring layout in your brain. Considering I had never my dad alone, he freely acknowledges that he had little understanding of how to parent a female. It was extremely challenging to get adjusted to. Our relationship was rough for a long time and with all these things happening in my life I began to struggle with depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts. Dealing with mental health issues silently while also trying to be a good student and athlete is something I would never want to experience again. Although it took me six years, three notebooks full of my feelings, and countless sessions of therapy, I am happy to say I have overcome and learned to live with all these struggles. By using my struggles for the greater good, I'm able to help those who had gone through similar experiences. I've learned that just because I lack the resources, money, and support I deserve, that doesn't mean I shouldn't pursue it. I understand what it feels like to be on your own. I didn’t like the cards I was dealt so I decided to reshuffle the deck. Getting an education is the most important thing in my life right now. Being that my mom dropped out in 8th grade and my brothers in 12th, My main goal for my education is to be able finally to breathe. School for me has had big up & downs, I've been on top of Mount Everest, but I've also been in the deepest trenches of the ocean. I’m ready to be the change that my family needs. As of right now, I am attending the Metropolitan State University of Denver and will receive my degree in late 2024, I am both a Community Correction Specialist to be able to help people like my family; and a high school swim coach to be able to help girls like me.

One of my memories of growing up is of living in Pueblo with my mother and my two brothers. I had to endure my family's substance abuse while surviving on assistance and in Section 8 housing. My mother put her addiction to drugs before her obligations, and I had to learn to cope with homelessness and sexual assault. Luckily for me, I had my grandma Darlene. I could talk about her all day, she was my best friend and primarily my mother figure. She is part of the reason I’m the person I am today. She knew I was going to do amazing things with my life. So losing her to Alzheimer's was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to experience. Her death is something I still struggle with to this day. It was the start of my second growing-up life. My family reacted in different ways. My brothers began to do even harder drugs and get involved in gangs. These choices have led them down a path of crime which inevitably leads them to prison. I wish I could say they were in a better spot now but they both continue to chase the dragon of bad decisions. I was left with my dad by my mother when she decided she was done being a mother so she could concentrate fully on her new marriage and drug addiction. My life experiences caused me to be an adult in a child's body because of all these circumstances. It was easy for everyone, including me, to want to give up. When the only person who ever thought you would be something in life dies abruptly and unexpectedly, it changes the whole wiring layout in your brain. Considering I had never my dad alone, he freely acknowledges that he had little understanding of how to parent a female. It was extremely challenging to get adjusted to. Our relationship was rough for a long time and with all these things happening in my life I began to struggle with depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts. Dealing with mental health issues silently while also trying to be a good student and athlete is something I would never want to experience again. Although it took me six years, three notebooks full of my feelings, and countless sessions of therapy, I am happy to say I have overcome and learned to live with all these struggles. By using my struggles for the greater good, I'm able to help those who had gone through similar experiences. I've learned that just because I lack the resources, money, and support I deserve, that doesn't mean I shouldn't pursue it. I understand what it feels like to be on your own. I didn’t like the cards I was dealt so I decided to reshuffle the deck. Getting an education is the most important thing in my life right now. Being that my mom dropped out in 8th grade and my brothers in 12th, My main goal for my education is to be able finally to breathe. School for me has had big up & downs, I've been on top of Mount Everest, but I've also been in the deepest trenches of the ocean. I’m ready to be the change that my family needs. As of right now, I am attending the Metropolitan State University of Denver and will receive my degree in late 2024, I am both a Community Correction Specialist to be able to help people like my family; and a high school swim coach to be able to help girls like me.

One of my memories of growing up is of living in Pueblo with my mother and my two brothers. I had to endure my family's substance abuse while surviving on assistance and in Section 8 housing. My mother put her addiction to drugs before her obligations, and I had to learn to cope with homelessness and sexual assault. Luckily for me, I had my grandma Darlene. I could talk about her all day, she was my best friend and primarily my mother figure. She is part of the reason I’m the person I am today. She knew I was going to do amazing things with my life. So losing her suddenly to a brain aneurysm was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to experience. Her death is something I still struggle with to this day. It was the start of my second growing-up life. My family reacted in different ways. My brothers began to do even harder drugs and get involved in gangs. These choices have led them down a path of crime which inevitably leads them to prison. I wish I could say they were in a better spot now but they both continue to chase the dragon of bad decisions. I was left with my dad by my mother when she decided she was done being a mother so she could concentrate fully on her new marriage and drug addiction. My life experiences caused me to be an adult in a child's body because of all these circumstances. It was easy for everyone, including me, to want to give up. When the only person who ever thought you would be something in life dies abruptly and unexpectedly, it changes the whole wiring layout in your brain. Considering I had never my dad alone, he freely acknowledges that he had little understanding of how to parent a female. It was extremely challenging to get adjusted to. Our relationship was rough for a long time and with all these things happening in my life I began to struggle with depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts. Dealing with mental health issues silently while also trying to be a good student and athlete is something I would never want to experience again. Although it took me six years, three notebooks full of my feelings, and countless sessions of therapy, I am happy to say I have overcome and learned to live with all these struggles. By using my struggles for the greater good, I'm able to help those who had gone through similar experiences. I've learned that just because I lack the resources, money, and support I deserve, that doesn't mean I shouldn't pursue it. I understand what it feels like to be on your own. I didn’t like the cards I was dealt so I decided to reshuffle the deck. Getting an education is the most important thing in my life right now. Being that my mom dropped out in 8th grade and my brothers in 12th, My main goal for my education is to be able finally to breathe. School for me has had big up & downs, I've been on top of Mount Everest, but I've also been in the deepest trenches of the ocean. I’m ready to be the change that my family needs. As of right now, I am attending the Metropolitan State University of Denver and will receive my degree in late 2024, I am both a Community Correction Specialist to be able to help people like my family; and a high school swim coach to be able to help girls like me.

One of my memories of growing up is of living in Pueblo with my mother and my two brothers. I had to endure my family's substance abuse while surviving on assistance and in Section 8 housing. My mother put her addiction to drugs before her obligations, and I had to learn to cope with homelessness and sexual assault. Luckily for me, I had my grandma Darlene. I could talk about her all day, she was my best friend and primarily my mother figure. She is part of the reason I’m the person I am today. She knew I was going to do amazing things with my life. So losing her suddenly to a brain aneurysm was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to experience. Her death is something I still struggle with to this day. It was the start of my second growing-up life. My family reacted in different ways. My brothers began to do even harder drugs and get involved in gangs. These choices have led them down a path of crime which inevitably leads them to prison. I wish I could say they were in a better spot now but they both continue to chase the dragon of bad decisions. I was left with my dad by my mother when she decided she was done being a mother so she could concentrate fully on her new marriage and drug addiction. My life experiences caused me to be an adult in a child's body because of all these circumstances. It was easy for everyone, including me, to want to give up. When the only person who ever thought you would be something in life dies abruptly and unexpectedly, it changes the whole wiring layout in your brain. Considering I had never my dad alone, he freely acknowledges that he had little understanding of how to parent a female. It was extremely challenging to get adjusted to. Our relationship was rough for a long time and with all these things happening in my life I began to struggle with depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts. Dealing with mental health issues silently while also trying to be a good student and athlete is something I would never want to experience again. Although it took me six years, three notebooks full of my feelings, and countless sessions of therapy, I am happy to say I have overcome and learned to live with all these struggles. By using my struggles for the greater good, I'm able to help those who had gone through similar experiences. I've learned that just because I lack the resources, money, and support I deserve, that doesn't mean I shouldn't pursue it. I understand what it feels like to be on your own. I didn’t like the cards I was dealt so I decided to reshuffle the deck. Getting an education is the most important thing in my life right now. Being that my mom dropped out in 8th grade and my brothers in 12th, My main goal for my education is to be able finally to breathe. School for me has had big up & downs, I've been on top of Mount Everest, but I've also been in the deepest trenches of the ocean. I’m ready to be the change that my family needs. As of right now, I am attending the Metropolitan State University of Denver and will receive my degree in late 2024, I am both a Community Correction Specialist to be able to help people like my family; and a high school swim coach to be able to help girls like me.

One of my memories of growing up is of living in Pueblo with my mother and my two brothers. I had to endure my family's substance abuse while surviving on assistance and in Section 8 housing. My mother put her addiction to drugs before her obligations, and I had to learn to cope with homelessness and sexual assault. Luckily for me, I had my grandma Darlene. I could talk about her all day, she was my best friend and primarily my mother figure. She is part of the reason I’m the person I am today. She knew I was going to do amazing things with my life. So losing her suddenly to a brain aneurysm was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to experience. Her death is something I still struggle with to this day. It was the start of my second growing-up life. My family reacted in different ways. My brothers began to do even harder drugs and get involved in gangs. These choices have led them down a path of crime which inevitably leads them to prison. I wish I could say they were in a better spot now but they both continue to chase the dragon of bad decisions. I was left with my dad by my mother when she decided she was done being a mother so she could concentrate fully on her new marriage and drug addiction. My life experiences caused me to be an adult in a child's body because of all these circumstances. It was easy for everyone, including me, to want to give up. When the only person who ever thought you would be something in life dies abruptly and unexpectedly, it changes the whole wiring layout in your brain. Considering I had never my dad alone, he freely acknowledges that he had little understanding of how to parent a female. It was extremely challenging to get adjusted to. Our relationship was rough for a long time and with all these things happening in my life I began to struggle with depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts. Dealing with mental health issues silently while also trying to be a good student and athlete is something I would never want to experience again. Although it took me six years, three notebooks full of my feelings, and countless sessions of therapy, I am happy to say I have overcome and learned to live with all these struggles. By using my struggles for the greater good, I'm able to help those who had gone through similar experiences. I've learned that just because I lack the resources, money, and support I deserve, that doesn't mean I shouldn't pursue it. I understand what it feels like to be on your own. I didn’t like the cards I was dealt so I decided to reshuffle the deck. Getting an education is the most important thing in my life right now. Being that my mom dropped out in 8th grade and my brothers in 12th, My main goal for my education is to be able finally to breathe. School for me has had big up & downs, I've been on top of Mount Everest, but I've also been in the deepest trenches of the ocean. I’m ready to be the change that my family needs. As of right now, I am attending the Metropolitan State University of Denver and will receive my degree in late 2024, I am both a Community Correction Specialist to be able to help people like my family; and a high school swim coach to be able to help girls like me.

One of my memories of growing up is of living in Pueblo with my mother and my two brothers. I had to endure my family's substance abuse while surviving on assistance and in Section 8 housing. My mother put her addiction to drugs before her obligations, and I had to learn to cope with homelessness and sexual assault. Luckily for me, I had my grandma Darlene. I could talk about her all day, she was my best friend and primarily my mother figure. She is part of the reason I’m the person I am today. She knew I was going to do amazing things with my life. So losing her suddenly to a brain aneurysm was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to experience. Her death is something I still struggle with to this day. It was the start of my second growing-up life. My family reacted in different ways. My brothers began to do even harder drugs and get involved in gangs. These choices have led them down a path of crime which inevitably leads them to prison. I wish I could say they were in a better spot now but they both continue to chase the dragon of bad decisions. I was left with my dad by my mother when she decided she was done being a mother so she could concentrate fully on her new marriage and drug addiction. My life experiences caused me to be an adult in a child's body because of all these circumstances. It was easy for everyone, including me, to want to give up. When the only person who ever thought you would be something in life dies abruptly and unexpectedly, it changes the whole wiring layout in your brain. Considering I had never my dad alone, he freely acknowledges that he had little understanding of how to parent a female. It was extremely challenging to get adjusted to. Our relationship was rough for a long time and with all these things happening in my life I began to struggle with depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts. Dealing with mental health issues silently while also trying to be a good student and athlete is something I would never want to experience again. Although it took me six years, three notebooks full of my feelings, and countless sessions of therapy, I am happy to say I have overcome and learned to live with all these struggles. By using my struggles for the greater good, I'm able to help those who had gone through similar experiences. I've learned that just because I lack the resources, money, and support I deserve, that doesn't mean I shouldn't pursue it. I understand what it feels like to be on your own. I didn’t like the cards I was dealt so I decided to reshuffle the deck. Getting an education is the most important thing in my life right now. Being that my mom dropped out in 8th grade and my brothers in 12th, My main goal for my education is to be able finally to breathe. School for me has had big up & downs, I've been on top of Mount Everest, but I've also been in the deepest trenches of the ocean. I’m ready to be the change that my family needs. As of right now, I am attending the Metropolitan State University of Denver and will receive my degree in late 2024, I am both a Community Correction Specialist to be able to help people like my family; and a high school swim coach to be able to help girls like me.

One of my memories of growing up is of living in Pueblo with my mother and my two brothers. I had to endure my family's substance abuse while surviving on assistance and in Section 8 housing. My mother put her addiction to drugs before her obligations, and I had to learn to cope with homelessness and sexual assault. Luckily for me, I had my grandma Darlene. I could talk about her all day, she was my best friend and primarily my mother figure. She is part of the reason I’m the person I am today. She knew I was going to do amazing things with my life. So losing her suddenly to a brain aneurysm was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to experience. Her death is something I still struggle with to this day. It was the start of my second growing-up life. My family reacted in different ways. My brothers began to do even harder drugs and get involved in gangs. These choices have led them down a path of crime which inevitably leads them to prison. I wish I could say they were in a better spot now but they both continue to chase the dragon of bad decisions. I was left with my dad by my mother when she decided she was done being a mother so she could concentrate fully on her new marriage and drug addiction. My life experiences caused me to be an adult in a child's body because of all these circumstances. It was easy for everyone, including me, to want to give up. When the only person who ever thought you would be something in life dies abruptly and unexpectedly, it changes the whole wiring layout in your brain. Considering I had never my dad alone, he freely acknowledges that he had little understanding of how to parent a female. It was extremely challenging to get adjusted to. Our relationship was rough for a long time and with all these things happening in my life I began to struggle with depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts. Dealing with mental health issues silently while also trying to be a good student and athlete is something I would never want to experience again. Although it took me six years, three notebooks full of my feelings, and countless sessions of therapy, I am happy to say I have overcome and learned to live with all these struggles. By using my struggles for the greater good, I'm able to help those who had gone through similar experiences. I've learned that just because I lack the resources, money, and support I deserve, that doesn't mean I shouldn't pursue it. I understand what it feels like to be on your own. I didn’t like the cards I was dealt so I decided to reshuffle the deck. Getting an education is the most important thing in my life right now. Being that my mom dropped out in 8th grade and my brothers in 12th, My main goal for my education is to be able finally to breathe. School for me has had big up & downs, I've been on top of Mount Everest, but I've also been in the deepest trenches of the ocean. I’m ready to be the change that my family needs. As of right now, I am attending the Metropolitan State University of Denver and will receive my degree in late 2024, I am both a Community Correction Specialist to be able to help people like my family; and a high school swim coach to be able to help girls like me.

One of my memories of growing up is of living in Pueblo with my mother and my two brothers. I had to endure my family's substance abuse while surviving on assistance and in Section 8 housing. My mother put her addiction to drugs before her obligations, and I had to learn to cope with homelessness and sexual assault. Luckily for me, I had my grandma Darlene. I could talk about her all day, she was my best friend and primarily my mother figure. She is part of the reason I’m the person I am today. She knew I was going to do amazing things with my life. So losing her suddenly to a brain aneurysm was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to experience. Her death is something I still struggle with to this day. It was the start of my second growing-up life. My family reacted in different ways. My brothers began to do even harder drugs and get involved in gangs. These choices have led them down a path of crime which inevitably leads them to prison. I wish I could say they were in a better spot now but they both continue to chase the dragon of bad decisions. I was left with my dad by my mother when she decided she was done being a mother so she could concentrate fully on her new marriage and drug addiction. My life experiences caused me to be an adult in a child's body because of all these circumstances. It was easy for everyone, including me, to want to give up. When the only person who ever thought you would be something in life dies abruptly and unexpectedly, it changes the whole wiring layout in your brain. Considering I had never my dad alone, he freely acknowledges that he had little understanding of how to parent a female. It was extremely challenging to get adjusted to. Our relationship was rough for a long time and with all these things happening in my life I began to struggle with depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts. Dealing with mental health issues silently while also trying to be a good student and athlete is something I would never want to experience again. Although it took me six years, three notebooks full of my feelings, and countless sessions of therapy, I am happy to say I have overcome and learned to live with all these struggles. By using my struggles for the greater good, I'm able to help those who had gone through similar experiences. I've learned that just because I lack the resources, money, and support I deserve, that doesn't mean I shouldn't pursue it. I understand what it feels like to be on your own. I didn’t like the cards I was dealt so I decided to reshuffle the deck. Getting an education is the most important thing in my life right now. Being that my mom dropped out in 8th grade and my brothers in 12th, My main goal for my education is to be able finally to breathe. School for me has had big up & downs, I've been on top of Mount Everest, but I've also been in the deepest trenches of the ocean. I’m ready to be the change that my family needs. As of right now, I am attending the Metropolitan State University of Denver and will receive my degree in late 2024, I am both a Community Correction Specialist to be able to help people like my family; and a high school swim coach to be able to help girls like me.

One of my memories of growing up is of living in Pueblo with my mother and my two brothers. I had to endure my family's substance abuse while surviving on assistance and in Section 8 housing. My mother put her addiction to drugs before her obligations, and I had to learn to cope with homelessness and sexual assault. Luckily for me, I had my grandma Darlene. I could talk about her all day, she was my best friend and primarily my mother figure. She is part of the reason I’m the person I am today. She knew I was going to do amazing things with my life. So losing her suddenly to a brain aneurysm was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to experience. Her death is something I still struggle with to this day. It was the start of my second growing-up life. My family reacted in different ways. My brothers began to do even harder drugs and get involved in gangs. These choices have led them down a path of crime which inevitably leads them to prison. I wish I could say they were in a better spot now but they both continue to chase the dragon of bad decisions. I was left with my dad by my mother when she decided she was done being a mother so she could concentrate fully on her new marriage and drug addiction. My life experiences caused me to be an adult in a child's body because of all these circumstances. It was easy for everyone, including me, to want to give up. When the only person who ever thought you would be something in life dies abruptly and unexpectedly, it changes the whole wiring layout in your brain. Considering I had never my dad alone, he freely acknowledges that he had little understanding of how to parent a female. It was extremely challenging to get adjusted to. Our relationship was rough for a long time and with all these things happening in my life I began to struggle with depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts. Dealing with mental health issues silently while also trying to be a good student and athlete is something I would never want to experience again. Although it took me six years, three notebooks full of my feelings, and countless sessions of therapy, I am happy to say I have overcome and learned to live with all these struggles. By using my struggles for the greater good, I'm able to help those who had gone through similar experiences. I've learned that just because I lack the resources, money, and support I deserve, that doesn't mean I shouldn't pursue it. I understand what it feels like to be on your own. I didn’t like the cards I was dealt so I decided to reshuffle the deck. Getting an education is the most important thing in my life right now. Being that my mom dropped out in 8th grade and my brothers in 12th, My main goal for my education is to be able finally to breathe. School for me has had big up & downs, I've been on top of Mount Everest, but I've also been in the deepest trenches of the ocean. I’m ready to be the change that my family needs. As of right now, I am attending the Metropolitan State University of Denver and will receive my degree in late 2024, I am both a Community Correction Specialist to be able to help people like my family; and a high school swim coach to be able to help girls like me.

One of my memories of growing up is of living in Pueblo with my mother and my two brothers. I had to endure my family's substance abuse while surviving on assistance and in Section 8 housing. My mother put her addiction to drugs before her obligations, and I had to learn to cope with homelessness and sexual assault. Luckily for me, I had my grandma Darlene. I could talk about her all day, she was my best friend and primarily my mother figure. She is part of the reason I’m the person I am today. She knew I was going to do amazing things with my life. So losing her suddenly to a brain aneurysm was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to experience. Her death is something I still struggle with to this day. It was the start of my second growing-up life. My family reacted in different ways. My brothers began to do even harder drugs and get involved in gangs. These choices have led them down a path of crime which inevitably leads them to prison. I wish I could say they were in a better spot now but they both continue to chase the dragon of bad decisions. I was left with my dad by my mother when she decided she was done being a mother so she could concentrate fully on her new marriage and drug addiction. My life experiences caused me to be an adult in a child's body because of all these circumstances. It was easy for everyone, including me, to want to give up. When the only person who ever thought you would be something in life dies abruptly and unexpectedly, it changes the whole wiring layout in your brain. Considering I had never my dad alone, he freely acknowledges that he had little understanding of how to parent a female. It was extremely challenging to get adjusted to. Our relationship was rough for a long time and with all these things happening in my life I began to struggle with depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts. Dealing with mental health issues silently while also trying to be a good student and athlete is something I would never want to experience again. Although it took me six years, three notebooks full of my feelings, and countless sessions of therapy, I am happy to say I have overcome and learned to live with all these struggles. By using my struggles for the greater good, I'm able to help those who had gone through similar experiences. I've learned that just because I lack the resources, money, and support I deserve, that doesn't mean I shouldn't pursue it. I understand what it feels like to be on your own. I didn’t like the cards I was dealt so I decided to reshuffle the deck. Getting an education is the most important thing in my life right now. Being that my mom dropped out in 8th grade and my brothers in 12th, My main goal for my education is to be able finally to breathe. School for me has had big up & downs, I've been on top of Mount Everest, but I've also been in the deepest trenches of the ocean. I’m ready to be the change that my family needs. As of right now, I am attending the Metropolitan State University of Denver and will receive my degree in late 2024, I am both a Community Correction Specialist to be able to help people like my family; and a high school swim coach to be able to help girls like me.

One of my memories of growing up is of living in Pueblo with my mother and my two brothers. I had to endure my family's substance abuse while surviving on assistance and in Section 8 housing. My mother put her addiction to drugs before her obligations, and I had to learn to cope with homelessness and sexual assault. Luckily for me, I had my grandma Darlene. I could talk about her all day, she was my best friend and primarily my mother figure. She is part of the reason I’m the person I am today. She knew I was going to do amazing things with my life. So losing her suddenly to a brain aneurysm was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to experience. Her death is something I still struggle with to this day. It was the start of my second growing-up life. My family reacted in different ways. My brothers began to do even harder drugs and get involved in gangs. These choices have led them down a path of crime which inevitably leads them to prison. I wish I could say they were in a better spot now but they both continue to chase the dragon of bad decisions. I was left with my dad by my mother when she decided she was done being a mother so she could concentrate fully on her new marriage and drug addiction. My life experiences caused me to be an adult in a child's body because of all these circumstances. It was easy for everyone, including me, to want to give up. When the only person who ever thought you would be something in life dies abruptly and unexpectedly, it changes the whole wiring layout in your brain. Considering I had never my dad alone, he freely acknowledges that he had little understanding of how to parent a female. It was extremely challenging to get adjusted to. Our relationship was rough for a long time and with all these things happening in my life I began to struggle with depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts. Dealing with mental health issues silently while also trying to be a good student and athlete is something I would never want to experience again. Although it took me six years, three notebooks full of my feelings, and countless sessions of therapy, I am happy to say I have overcome and learned to live with all these struggles. By using my struggles for the greater good, I'm able to help those who had gone through similar experiences. I've learned that just because I lack the resources, money, and support I deserve, that doesn't mean I shouldn't pursue it. I understand what it feels like to be on your own. I didn’t like the cards I was dealt so I decided to reshuffle the deck. Getting an education is the most important thing in my life right now. Being that my mom dropped out in 8th grade and my brothers in 12th, My main goal for my education is to be able finally to breathe. School for me has had big up & downs, I've been on top of Mount Everest, but I've also been in the deepest trenches of the ocean. I’m ready to be the change that my family needs. As of right now, I am attending the Metropolitan State University of Denver and will receive my degree in late 2024, I am both a Community Correction Specialist to be able to help people like my family; and a high school swim coach to be able to help girls like me.

One of my memories of growing up is of living in Pueblo with my mother and my two brothers. I had to endure my family's substance abuse while surviving on assistance and in Section 8 housing. My mother put her addiction to drugs before her obligations, and I had to learn to cope with homelessness and sexual assault. Luckily for me, I had my grandma Darlene. I could talk about her all day, she was my best friend and primarily my mother figure. She is part of the reason I’m the person I am today. She knew I was going to do amazing things with my life. So losing her suddenly to a brain aneurysm was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to experience. Her death is something I still struggle with to this day. It was the start of my second growing-up life. My family reacted in different ways. My brothers began to do even harder drugs and get involved in gangs. These choices have led them down a path of crime which inevitably leads them to prison. I wish I could say they were in a better spot now but they both continue to chase the dragon of bad decisions. I was left with my dad by my mother when she decided she was done being a mother so she could concentrate fully on her new marriage and drug addiction. My life experiences caused me to be an adult in a child's body because of all these circumstances. It was easy for everyone, including me, to want to give up. When the only person who ever thought you would be something in life dies abruptly and unexpectedly, it changes the whole wiring layout in your brain. Considering I had never my dad alone, he freely acknowledges that he had little understanding of how to parent a female. It was extremely challenging to get adjusted to. Our relationship was rough for a long time and with all these things happening in my life I began to struggle with depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts. Dealing with mental health issues silently while also trying to be a good student and athlete is something I would never want to experience again. Although it took me six years, three notebooks full of my feelings, and countless sessions of therapy, I am happy to say I have overcome and learned to live with all these struggles. By using my struggles for the greater good, I'm able to help those who had gone through similar experiences. I've learned that just because I lack the resources, money, and support I deserve, that doesn't mean I shouldn't pursue my education. I understand what it feels like to be on your own. I didn’t like the cards I was dealt so I decided to reshuffle the deck. Getting an education is the most important thing in my life right now. Being that my mom dropped out in 8th grade and my brothers in 12th, My main goal for my education is to be able finally to breathe. School for me has had big up & downs, I've been on top of Mount Everest, but I've also been in the deepest trenches of the ocean. I’m ready to be the change that my family needs. As of right now, I am attending the Metropolitan State University of Denver and will receive my degree in late 2024, I am both a Community Correction Specialist to be able to help people like my family; and a high school swim coach to be able to help girls like me.