The experience of loss is something that many of us will face at some point in our lives. Whether it's the loss of a loved one or a significant personal setback, it can be a difficult and emotional challenge to overcome. However, as someone who has experienced these challenges firsthand, I can attest to the fact that loss can also be a powerful catalyst for growth and transformation. For me, the loss of my father was a devastating blow that shook me to my core. In the aftermath of his passing, I found myself struggling to come to terms with my grief and the impact that his absence would have on my life. At the same time, a traumatic knee injury further compounded my struggles, leaving me feeling helpless and unsure of what the future would hold. But as difficult as these experiences were, they also gave me a renewed sense of purpose and direction. I realized that I wanted to help others who were going through similar struggles and make a positive impact in their lives. This realization led me to pursue a career in healthcare, where I could use my experiences to empathize with others and make a meaningful difference in their lives. As a Certified Nursing Assistant and Patient Care Technician, I have had the privilege of working with patients who are in need of care and support. Whether it's providing basic medical care or simply being a compassionate listener, I have found great fulfillment in helping others in their time of need. And as a student ambassador and member of the Wheeler Chamber of Commerce, I have been able to give back to my community in meaningful ways, further cementing my desire to make a positive impact in the world. Looking ahead, my future goals include obtaining a nursing degree from West Texas University and becoming a nurse practitioner to further my expertise in the field. I believe that by continuing to build on my experiences and education, I can make an even greater impact in the lives of others and help them achieve their goal of a healthy life. Ultimately, I believe that loss can be a transformative experience that pushes us to become the best versions of ourselves. It may be a difficult and emotional journey, but by embracing the challenges that come with loss, we can find new meaning and purpose in our lives. With my drive, motivation, and dedication, I am confident that I can continue to make a difference in the world and help others overcome their own struggles.

Losing my father to ALS was a life-altering experience that has shaped who I am today. It was devastating to witness the slow and painful deterioration of his body and mind. I felt helpless and powerless, but his struggle also sparked a fire within me to help others in similar situations. I knew that I wanted to make a positive impact in the world by dedicating my life to nursing. But my family's challenges didn't end there. We also faced financial adversity after my father's passing, which forced my mother to work multiple jobs to support us. It was a difficult adjustment period, but her strength and determination to provide for us inspired me to work hard and pursue my education. I am grateful for the unwavering support of my family during tough times. Their love and encouragement have motivated me to overcome adversity and pursue my dreams of becoming a nurse. I am excited to attend West Texas A&M University, where I will have access to a wealth of knowledge and resources that will enable me to become the best nurse I can be. I believe that nursing is a powerful profession that allows me to make a positive impact on the lives of those around me. With my passion for helping others and my dedication to learning, I am confident that I will be able to make a meaningful difference in the world. Through my education and training, I hope to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to provide compassionate care to those who are suffering. I want to be a source of comfort and support for patients during their most vulnerable moments. Whether it's easing pain, providing emotional support, or advocating for patients' rights, I want to be the best possible nurse I can be. Ultimately, my goal is to use my experiences and skills to make a lasting impact on the world, one patient at a time. I believe that by providing excellent care and support to my patients, I can help them overcome their struggles and achieve their goals. I want to be a source of hope and positivity in a world that can sometimes be dark and challenging. In conclusion, my journey toward becoming a nurse has been shaped by the adversity I've faced in my personal life. But it's also been shaped by the love and support of my family, and the desire to make a positive impact in the world. I am determined to use my education to become the best nurse I can be and to provide compassionate care to those who need it most.

September 4, 2011, was the day he died. I can't tell you much about him, which breaks my heart, but I was only 6.5 when my dad passed. He was diagnosed with ALS when I was only 2, so all my life I only remember him being in a wheelchair. Everything that I witnessed when I was little seemed normal to me then, but now I realize it was not at all. It attacked his muscles first, so his motion was the first to go. I was told that he had ridden 100 miles on his bike one day, and the next day he was unable to tie his shoes. It hit that fast. It kept progressing until he could no longer move anything except for his eyes and his mouth, and that period included the hardest moments of my mom's life. We moved when I was 4 because my mom could no longer take care of my dad by herself. She tried her hardest to be strong, but there came a point where she realized she couldn't take care of my dad and me and my brother at the same time. We moved to Wheeler where we have several family members and I still live here today. People tell me about their memories of my dad, and that's supposed to make me happy right? Well, that's not how I feel at all. When I see their happy faces from their remembrance of my dad, I have hate in my heart towards them. It is NOT fair that you, who didn't even live with him, have clear memories of him. I should. My aunt told me the last thing my dad asked of her was, "Please don't let my kids forget me." I forgot almost everything, and I blamed her for it all. Because I was a young child when he died, my grief process did not start till 2 years ago. I would cry constantly but felt I couldn't go to my mom because I didn't want her to become emotional. I wanted to remember things about him, but I hadn't talked to his side of the family very much so I never asked. I was just a mess. ALS made my mom the incredible person she is today. She cared for my dad in the best way possible and never gave up on him. My mom taught me that asking for help never makes you weak and it is necessary for both your mental and physical health. My mom has also told me that it is good to take breaks because it is really easy to fight with your loved one and get frustrated with them if you are with them constantly. Through my dad's ALS experience I learned that life is precious and should never be taken for granted. Receiving this scholarship would benefit me financially and help me to achieve my desire in helping those who struggle with their health.