My name is Cameron, and I am currently a nursing student at Arizona College of Nursing in Falls Church, Virginia, on track to graduate in the spring of 2028. At the age of 16, I was diagnosed with Myoclonic epilepsy, a condition that causes seizures, jerks, or spasms similar to electric shocks. Receiving this diagnosis was a life-changing moment, as it introduced a level of uncertainty and challenge that I had never faced before. I had to learn to navigate a chronic condition while continuing my education, managing my personal life, and preparing for my future. Initially, managing my epilepsy required me to develop a strong sense of self-awareness and discipline. I worked closely with my neurologist to monitor my condition, consistently took medications as prescribed, and carefully observed my lifestyle to avoid triggers such as sleep deprivation or stress. While there were times when the unpredictability of seizures made daily life difficult, I refused to allow this condition to define my potential. I dedicated myself to building coping strategies, staying organized, and maintaining my focus on long-term goals. These early experiences taught me resilience, perseverance, and the importance of advocating for my own health skills that have carried over into both my personal life and my professional aspirations. One of the most significant challenges I faced occurred during my early college years, when the demands of coursework, work, and daily responsibilities began to accumulate. Balancing a full-time class schedule with part-time employment initially seemed manageable, but over time the stress and sleep deprivation heightened the risk of seizures. I experienced a grand-mal seizure after nearly four years without one, which was a deeply frightening and humbling experience. This event reminded me of the importance of self-care, seeking support when needed, and remaining adaptable in the face of obstacles. I also recognized the critical role of advocacy not just for myself, but for others who might face similar challenges in navigating healthcare or educational systems. Overcoming these difficulties required patience, determination, and a commitment to consistency in managing my condition, and ultimately, I was able to regain control over my health and continue pursuing my education. Living with a chronic condition has profoundly shaped my perspective on life and my approach to nursing. I have gained a deep understanding of the vulnerability patients experience when facing health challenges, as well as the critical importance of empathy, compassion, and patient-centered care. These experiences have inspired me to pursue a career in nursing, with the ultimate goal of becoming a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA). I am passionate about providing care that addresses not only physical health but also emotional and psychological needs, advocating for patients, and supporting them through some of their most vulnerable moments. My personal experiences allow me to connect with patients on a deeper level, understand their fears, and provide reassurance and guidance in a compassionate, empathetic manner. Currently, I am committed to my studies at Arizona College of Nursing, striving for academic excellence while maintaining a healthy balance in my life. My journey has strengthened my determination, resilience, and capacity for empathy, all of which I will bring to my nursing practice. I believe that the challenges I have overcome, particularly managing epilepsy while pursuing higher education, have prepared me to face the demanding and rewarding field of nursing with confidence and dedication. In conclusion, the challenges I have faced in my life have not deterred me; rather, they have strengthened my resolve to make a positive impact in the nursing profession. I am determined to leverage my experiences to provide high-quality, compassionate care to patients, to advocate for those facing health challenges, and to inspire others through my resilience and commitment. My epilepsy has not limited my potential it has shaped my perspective, fueled my empathy, and strengthened my dedication to a lifelong goal of serving others in the medical field. I am confident that these experiences will allow me to positively impact the nursing profession and contribute meaningfully to patient care throughout my career.

At 16, I was diagnosed with Myoclonic epilepsy, a condition that causes seizures, jerks, or spasms similar to an electric shock. Navigating this diagnosis taught me the importance of resilience, self-awareness, and advocating for my own health. I have worked closely with my neurologist, taken my medications consistently, and developed strategies to manage my condition, which has allowed me to continue pursuing my dreams in medicine. Living with a chronic condition has given me a unique perspective on patient care. I understand firsthand the vulnerability patients feel when facing medical challenges, and I recognize the profound impact that empathy, advocacy, and patient-centered care can have on their well-being. These experiences have inspired my pursuit of nursing and my ultimate goal of becoming a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA). I am passionate about combining technical expertise with compassion to provide care that addresses both the physical and emotional needs of patients. Currently, I am a nursing student at Arizona College of Nursing in Falls Church, Virginia, on track to graduate in the spring of 2028. My personal journey has strengthened my dedication to excellence, integrity, and advocacy in healthcare. I am committed to serving patients with disabilities and chronic conditions, ensuring they feel understood, supported, and empowered throughout their care. My experiences have taught me that nursing is not only about medical knowledge it is about connecting with patients on a human level and advocating for their needs. I believe I will positively impact the nursing profession by bringing empathy, determination, and resilience to every patient interaction. My experiences with epilepsy have shaped my understanding of how life-altering conditions can affect a patient’s quality of life, and I am motivated to use this perspective to enhance patient care. Additionally, I hope to inspire colleagues and patients alike by demonstrating that challenges can be transformed into opportunities for growth, compassion, and leadership in healthcare. Ultimately, I see nursing as both a calling and a responsibility. I am determined to leverage my personal experiences, academic preparation, and commitment to compassionate care to contribute meaningfully to the nursing profession. By blending technical skill with empathy and advocacy, I aim to make a lasting difference in the lives of patients and their families while setting an example for future nurses to approach care with both competence and compassion. My epilepsy has not defined my limitations; it has strengthened my resilience, fueled my empathy, and reinforced my dedication to a lifelong goal of serving others in the medical field.