A Tapestry of Resilience: Why I Seek to Serve My life has been a journey woven with threads of technology, community, and the enduring spirit of my Native American heritage. Growing up on the Flathead Reservation, I learned early on the importance of resilience, community, and the power of knowledge. From disassembling and repairing my first computer to managing complex IT infrastructures, I've always been driven by a desire to understand and solve problems. My experiences, both personal and professional, have shaped me into a dedicated individual committed to lifelong learning and making a positive impact. My career path, from owning a computer repair business to directing community programs and providing technical support, has provided me with a unique blend of skills and perspectives. I've witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by underserved communities, the transformative power of education, and the importance of preserving cultural heritage. My work with the D.F.C. Program at Salish Kootenai College, for example, taught me the importance of grant writing and resource management, while my role as IT Coordinator at Kicking Horse Job Corps highlighted the need for accessible technology and education. These experiences have instilled in me a deep sense of responsibility to serve my community and contribute to a more equitable world. Currently, my pursuit of further education in accounting, business management, and art reflects my commitment to continuous growth and my desire to expand my ability to serve. I believe that by combining my technical expertise with business acumen and creative thinking, I can develop innovative solutions to the challenges facing our communities. Whether it's creating culturally relevant educational programs, establishing sustainable businesses, or advocating for policy changes, I am committed to using my education to make a positive impact. I should be selected for this scholarship because I am a dedicated and resilient individual with a proven track record of service and a clear vision for the future. My diverse experiences, combined with my commitment to lifelong learning, make me a unique and valuable candidate. I am not just seeking an education for personal gain; I am seeking the tools and knowledge necessary to empower others and build a stronger community. My plan to make a positive impact extends beyond my immediate community. I am passionate about bridging the digital divide, promoting cultural understanding, and addressing the challenges of climate change. Through my involvement with organizations like AISES, AIHEC, and ABIL, and my internships focusing on climate change and voter awareness, I am actively working to create a more just and equitable world. I believe that by fostering collaboration and sharing knowledge, we can build a brighter future for all. Furthermore, I aim to use my understanding of technology to create platforms that amplify the voices of marginalized communities and promote cultural exchange. By leveraging digital tools and platforms, I can help break down stereotypes, foster empathy, and build bridges of understanding between diverse groups. My experience with the Veterans History Project taught me the importance of preserving and sharing stories, and I believe that technology can be used to share the stories of diverse communities around the world. This scholarship would be instrumental in allowing me to fully dedicate myself to my studies and community service activities. It would alleviate the financial burden of tuition and provide me with access to resources and networks that would enhance my learning and expand my opportunities. With this support, I can complete my education and dedicate myself to making a meaningful contribution to the world.

The Unfinished Song: A Journey of Lifelong Learning and Community Service The scent of sage and the hum of a repaired computer, two seemingly disparate elements, have woven together the tapestry of my life. I remember, as a young man, the frustration of a broken machine, and the satisfaction of bringing it back to life. It wasn't just about fixing hardware; it was about restoring connection, enabling communication, and empowering individuals. This early experience ignited a passion for technology, but also a deeper understanding of its role in serving community. Life, however, is rarely a straight line. My journey has been a series of chapters, each contributing to the person I am today, and each reinforcing my commitment to lifelong learning and community service. My years managing IT infrastructure, providing technical support, and directing community programs have taught me the importance of adaptability, resourcefulness, and empathy. I've seen firsthand the challenges faced by underserved communities, the power of education to transform lives, and the importance of preserving our cultural heritage. These experiences have shaped my personal values, emphasizing the importance of service, integrity, and lifelong learning. Now, at this stage of my life, I recognize the need to further enhance my skills and knowledge to better serve my community. My decision to pursue additional education in accounting, business management, and art is not just a personal pursuit; it's a commitment to building a stronger, more resilient community. My career aspirations are rooted in the desire to bridge the gap between technology, culture, and community development. I envision myself leveraging my technical expertise and business acumen to create sustainable solutions that empower Native American communities. Whether it's developing culturally relevant educational programs, creating digital platforms for cultural preservation, or establishing businesses that promote economic self-sufficiency, I am committed to using my education to make a positive impact. I believe that by combining my knowledge of technology, business, and cultural understanding, I can contribute to the development of innovative solutions that address the unique challenges facing our communities. My commitment to community service is deeply ingrained in my cultural values and personal experiences. I understand the importance of giving back, of supporting those in need, and of working together to build a better future. My involvement in organizations like AISES, AIHEC, and ABIL, along with my internships focusing on climate change and voter awareness, demonstrates my commitment to addressing critical issues facing our communities. I plan to use my education to further enhance my ability to serve, whether it's through volunteering, mentoring, or advocating for policy changes that benefit underserved populations. This scholarship would be instrumental in helping me achieve my goals. It would alleviate the financial burden of tuition and allow me to focus on my studies and community service activities. It would also provide me with access to resources and networks that would enhance my learning and expand my opportunities. With this support, I can complete my education and dedicate myself to making a meaningful contribution to my community. The journey is not finished, it is still being written, and this scholarship would be a powerful tool in helping me write the next chapter.

Bridging Worlds: Technology, Empathy, and the Power of Connection My unique blend of technical expertise, community engagement, and cultural understanding positions me to be a bridge-builder in an increasingly interconnected world. Rooted in the rich storytelling traditions of my Native American heritage and honed through years of practical experience in IT and community development, I believe I can contribute to a more empathetic and understanding global community by leveraging technology and fostering meaningful connections. My technical skills, honed through years of computer repair, network management, and IT support, provide a powerful tool for bridging divides. In an era where digital literacy is paramount, I can leverage my expertise to empower underserved communities, both locally and globally. By providing access to technology and education, I can help bridge the digital divide, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to participate in the global conversation. My experience in remote technical support has shown me the power of technology to connect people across vast distances, and I aim to expand this reach, using technology to facilitate cross-cultural dialogue and understanding. My experience as a D.F.C. Program Director and my ongoing involvement in Native American organizations have instilled in me a deep understanding of the importance of cultural sensitivity and community engagement. I understand the power of storytelling to foster empathy and understanding, and I believe that technology can be used to amplify these voices. By creating platforms for cultural exchange and dialogue, I can help break down stereotypes and build bridges of understanding between different communities. My work with the Veterans History Project taught me the importance of preserving and sharing stories, and I believe that digital platforms can be used to share the stories of diverse communities around the world, fostering a greater appreciation for our shared humanity. Furthermore, my ongoing education in business management and art provides me with a unique perspective on the intersection of technology, culture, and commerce. I believe that by combining these disciplines, I can develop innovative solutions that address the challenges facing our global community. Whether it's developing culturally sensitive educational programs, creating digital platforms for cultural exchange, or using technology to promote sustainable development, I am committed to using my skills to make a positive impact. My involvement with organizations like AISES, AIHEC, and ABIL, along with my internships focusing on climate change and voter awareness, demonstrates my commitment to addressing global challenges. I believe that by fostering collaboration and sharing knowledge, we can create a more just and equitable world. I am particularly interested in using technology to promote environmental sustainability and empower indigenous communities, ensuring that their voices are heard in the global conversation. In essence, I will leverage my technical skills to bridge the digital divide, my cultural understanding to foster empathy and understanding, and my passion for lifelong learning to develop innovative solutions to global challenges. By combining these unique talents and skills, I aim to build a more empathetic and understanding global community, one connection at a time.

The Whispers of the Wind: A Legacy of Resilience In the heart of the Flathead Reservation, stories are not just tales; they are living threads connecting generations, weaving together history, culture, and identity. My grandfather, a respected elder and a veteran, held within him a vast library of these narratives. He didn’t just tell stories; he embodied them. He spoke of our ancestors' resilience, their deep connection to the land, and the enduring spirit that had carried our people through trials and triumphs. One story, in particular, has profoundly shaped my understanding of strength and purpose. He recounted the story of our ancestors' forced relocation, the long and arduous journey, and the unwavering determination to preserve their traditions despite immense hardship. It wasn't a tale of victimhood, but of unwavering spirit and survival. He spoke of the importance of remembering, of honoring the sacrifices made, and of carrying forward the legacy of our people. He emphasized the power of community, the importance of helping one another, and the responsibility we have to protect our land and culture for future generations. This story, and countless others like it, instilled in me a deep sense of responsibility to my community. It taught me that resilience is not just about enduring hardship; it's about finding strength in unity and purpose. It illuminated the importance of preserving our cultural heritage, not just as a matter of tradition, but as a source of strength and guidance. As a young man, I witnessed the power of these stories to heal, to inspire, and to connect. When I later worked as the D.F.C. Program Director at Salish Kootenai College, I understood the importance of fostering collaboration and providing resources to local organizations, knowing that I was playing a part in continuing that legacy of support. The stories also reinforced the importance of education as a tool for empowerment. My grandfather understood that knowledge was essential for navigating the challenges of the modern world while preserving our cultural identity. He encouraged me to pursue my education, not just for personal gain, but to equip myself with the tools to serve my community. This is why I've dedicated myself to lifelong learning, from my IT degrees to my current studies in accounting, business, and art. I see these pursuits as ways to honor the wisdom of my ancestors and to contribute to the ongoing story of my people. My involvement in the Veterans History Project of the Library of Congress, where I interviewed and filmed veterans, was a direct reflection of this understanding. I wanted to capture and preserve the stories of those who had served, to ensure their experiences would not be forgotten. These stories, like those of my grandfather, are a vital part of our collective heritage. In essence, the stories I've heard and the experiences I've had have shaped my understanding of resilience, community, and the importance of preserving our cultural heritage. They have fueled my passion for lifelong learning and my commitment to serving my community. I carry these stories with me, like whispers of the wind, guiding me on my journey and reminding me of the enduring strength of my people.

Why Education Matters: A Journey of Growth and Empowerment From the moment I first disassembled and reassembled a computer as a young man, I understood that knowledge was the key to unlocking potential. Education, for me, has never been a static destination, but a dynamic journey of continuous learning and growth. It's the engine that powers innovation, the bridge that connects communities, and the foundation upon which I've built my career and personal fulfillment. My formal education at Salish Kootenai College, culminating in a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology, provided me with the technical expertise necessary to thrive in the ever-evolving IT landscape. It wasn't just about learning code or troubleshooting networks; it was about understanding how technology can empower individuals and communities. This understanding was crucial in my role as IT Coordinator at Kicking Horse Job Corps, where I ensured students had access to the tools and resources they needed to succeed. Education, in this context, wasn't just academic; it was transformative, giving young people the skills to build a better future. Beyond technical skills, education has instilled in me a deep appreciation for the power of collaboration and community engagement. My experience as D.F.C Program Director at Salish Kootenai College taught me the importance of grant writing and resource management, but more importantly, it taught me how to foster relationships within the Native American community. I learned how to listen, understand, and advocate for the needs of others, skills that are invaluable in any endeavor. Currently, my pursuit of an Accounting Certification at Stone Child College and dual enrollment in Business Management and Art at Tohono O'odham Community College reflects my commitment to lifelong learning and personal growth. These diverse educational experiences are broadening my perspective and equipping me with the tools to not only excel professionally but also contribute meaningfully to my community. The value of education extends beyond personal advancement. My internships with SUNSINGER CONSULTING, the American Indian Higher Education Consortium, and the American Indian College Fund have provided me with invaluable insights into climate change, voter awareness, and the broader landscape of Native American higher education. These experiences have reinforced my belief that education is a powerful tool for social change. As a Native FEWS Ambassador, I am committed to using my knowledge to address critical issues facing our communities. Moreover, involvement with organizations like AISES, AIHEC, and ABIL has created a network of like-minded individuals, fostering a sense of belonging and shared purpose. In conclusion, education has been the cornerstone of my personal and professional development. It has provided me with the skills, knowledge, and perspectives necessary to navigate a complex world and make a positive impact. It has empowered me to serve my community, embrace lifelong learning, and continuously strive for excellence. Education is not just about acquiring information; it’s about cultivating wisdom, fostering empathy, and building a brighter future for all. It is a journey of empowerment, and I am grateful for every step I have taken.

A Path to Empowerment: My Journey from the Reservation Growing up on the Flathead Reservation in Montana, I was immersed in a world shaped by adversity. Poverty, unemployment, and substance abuse were pervasive issues that threatened to limit the potential of countless individuals. Yet, my Metis heritage, rooted in the Chippewa-Cree Tribe, instilled in me a resilience that would shape my destiny. My grandfather, one of the original signers who secured our reservation land in the early 20th century, embodied the spirit of perseverance that continues to inspire generations. Education emerged as my beacon of hope. Unlike many reservation schools, Stone Child College offered a nurturing environment where I could explore my academic passions and embrace my cultural heritage. Surrounded by fellow Indigenous students, I felt a sense of belonging and purpose. Our shared experiences forged strong bonds and motivated us to strive for excellence. Beyond the classroom, I actively engaged in cultural activities, participating in powwows, language classes, and traditional ceremonies. These experiences deepened my connection to my roots and reinforced my identity as a proud Indigenous person. My academic journey has been marked by challenges and triumphs. Balancing coursework with family responsibilities and community commitments has often been demanding. However, the support of my family, mentors, and professors has been invaluable. They have encouraged me to persevere, reminding me that education is the key to unlocking a brighter future. I aspire to become a role model for my community, demonstrating the transformative power of education. I envision a future where Indigenous youth have access to quality education and opportunities to pursue their dreams. By breaking down barriers and challenging stereotypes, I hope to inspire others to reach their full potential. This scholarship represents more than financial support; it is an investment in my aspirations. It will enable me to continue my education and acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to make a positive impact on my community. I am determined to return to the reservation, not as an escapee, but as a catalyst for change. I will work tirelessly to empower my people, advocate for their rights, and promote economic development and social justice. As an Indigenous scholar, I am committed to preserving and revitalizing our cultural heritage. I will use my voice to amplify Indigenous perspectives and promote understanding and respect for diverse cultures. By sharing our stories and celebrating our traditions, we can inspire future generations to carry on our legacy. The path ahead may be fraught with challenges, but I am confident that with education, perseverance, and the support of my community, I can overcome any obstacle. I am grateful for the opportunity to pursue my dreams and contribute to a brighter future for all Indigenous

The nostalgic red square light of the Nintendo NES console, signaling the start of countless adventures, was the backdrop to my childhood friendships. Pixelated heroes like Mario and the intense battles of Contra defined our weekends, transforming my home into a gaming arena filled with laughter, friendly competition, and shared triumphs. These weren't just gaming sessions; they were bonding experiences, creating memories with my childhood friends that have endured through the years. As life unfolded, responsibilities grew, and distances widened, our gaming habits evolved. Online gaming became the bridge connecting us across miles, allowing us to maintain the friendships forged during those carefree days. Despite the demands of adulthood, with many of my childhood friends now parents themselves, we still find time to team up in virtual worlds, sharing laughter, victories, and the occasional friendly banter. It's remarkable how gaming, once a simple pastime, has become a powerful tool for connection. It's a testament to the enduring power of shared experiences and the ability of technology to bring people together. I'm grateful for the opportunity to continue playing games with my childhood friends, even if it's in a different format. It's a reminder that the joy of gaming transcends age and distance, and the bonds forged through shared experiences can last a lifetime. Beyond the nostalgic appeal, gaming has also played a significant role in my personal growth. It taught me the importance of teamwork, problem-solving, and perseverance. The challenges posed by complex games forced me to think critically, adapt to changing circumstances, and develop strategic thinking skills. These skills have proven invaluable in both my academic and professional life. Furthermore, gaming has provided me with a creative outlet. I've explored different genres, from role-playing games to first-person shooters, each offering unique opportunities for storytelling, character development, and world-building. It's a form of artistic expression that allows me to escape reality and immerse myself in imaginative worlds. In conclusion, gaming has been more than just a hobby for me; it has been a catalyst for lifelong friendships, personal growth, and creative expression. It has taught me the value of teamwork, problem-solving, and perseverance, and it has provided me with a lifelong source of entertainment and connection. As technology continues to evolve, I am excited to see how gaming will continue to shape our lives and bring people together in the years to come. The next generation of gamers, including my own children, will have the opportunity to experience the same joy, camaraderie, and personal growth that I've found in gaming.

My idea of art is anything and everything that creates or inspires an interest in art, whether it be paintings, photography, or sculpture. That was my opinion, art is in the eye of the beholder! Art can be one person's valued treasure and another person's garbage ready to be thrown out, and they both would be correct. Art in my opinion inspires creativity or a debate about the definition of what the artist is trying to express. Time is what made me think about art the most. Time is a human-made construct that helps the flow or passage of cycles that can be recorded in the past and present but not the future. I never pondered time in art, time and art, in my opinion, are cycles, Maybe the art I make today is good, but in 100 years will my art still be good in people's eyes 100 years from now, or will the art I make be like a trend that went out with the decade? I wonder in 100 years from now will my art be worth anything or hanging up in thrift stores being sold for a dollar, haha! Only time will tell, time and trends are what I found new in this module that I will be thinking about in the future while making art. I am a returning college student, I always wanted to pursue an art degree but I did not have the financial means to pursue my dream of getting an art degree, as I got older and wiser I just went for it as I am also dual majoring in Business. I have a degree in Information Technology I got when I was younger and I think Art is a great way to balance out the professional and creative side of my personality. I am left-handed and when I was a child my teachers used to smack my left hand with a ruler to stop me from writing with the left hand but I would continue to use my left hand anyway and I was in the era where the transition to being left-handed was finally being acceptable. The reason why I am bringing this up is because I think it is important to know that ever since I was young left-handed people were considered creative since they used the right side of their brain. I love art and I would be delighted to hear I was picked for such an awesome scholarship. Thank you Charles Wells

Perseverance, I think about this question a lot while I am going to college to pursue a better life for my family and myself. I can start my journey to the question being asked in 2020. Working as a Help Desk Technician at S&K Technologies. Working in my office when Covid-19 appeared on The Flathead Reservation where I worked and lived, all of a sudden people were getting sick, getting emitted to hospitals, and then dying. I went to work every day knowing I could get Covid-19 and bring it back to my wife and children, I took every precaution, I wore an n95 mask that stood 6 feet apart and used hand sanitizer until my hands dried out but, I had responsibilities, my job would not let me work from home during the pandemic so I had no choice but to go in every day. Got a call from my wife saying she got Covid-19 and we as a family had to be quarantined because Covid-19 is extremely contagious. Told my boss and he said he understood, every person that I was working with had to get tested for Covid-19. My wife, two sons, daughter, and I had to say in our house for over two weeks, then we got tested again and we still had Covid-19 in our systems so we had to quarantine for another two weeks. I told my job and they said they understood and my job would be there when I got out; however, until now I did not mention I had a heart condition and had to have a defibrillator in my chest prior to all of this going on, I dealt with it as best as I could until one day I got tachycardia and my heart was beating at 400 bets per minute and I passed out. I could not breathe, move, or say anything, but I could hear everything around me, I could not see anything, weirdest experience I ever had, all I remember is the defibrillator charging up and shocking me, then I woke up and took a deep breath and thanked god for getting a second chance. I went to the hospital the next day and a Heart Doctor told me that I am lucky to be alive he thought Covid-19 gave me tachycardia, however, he told me my heart was working under 20 percent of normal use and I needed to have open heart surgery because my heart was enlarged and they needed to cut some muscle from the inside of my heart out or I would die. I had no choice but to either have the surgery or die, so I agreed to the surgery. I had to have my chest cracked open and muscle from inside my heart removed so my blood would pump right, and I would not die. I had my surgery on January 6th 20021, and I had complications during the surgery, Covid-19 was still going on, I could not have any visitors and I had to stay in the hospital for a month-long as the doctor did not know if I was going to make it. My perseverance is what kept me alive, I told myself I have a family and kids and I was going to fight, I did fight and I made it home a month later but soon as I go home my kids got Covid-19 again. I had to quarantine in my room for two weeks, thankfully no one in my family died. I am going to college to better my future and glad to be alive.

I am proactively applying for scholarships, grants, and work-study positions to help offset my student debt. After graduation, I am applying for a business, civilian, or government position to help pay for my student debt loans and offset my costs for college. If for some reason I do not qualify for scholarships, grants, or work-study positions, I will pay for my student debt loans alone. My Plan to pay off my student loans, first of all, is not to take out as much money as I but only to take out enough student loans to make sure I have just enough to help pay my mortgage, school supplies, college classes, Insurance, power bill, and food costs. I am very grateful for the opportunity to apply for grants and scholarships while I am going to college. I am happy such programs are put there for college students who have needs inside and outside of college while going to college. That being said, I do know not all; of the intricate ways how to pay off my student debt but if my plan goes according to plan I will get a better understanding, but at least I have an idea of where to start while addressing current and future student debt while I am going to college. I am going to college for Business Administration and Accounting at Stone Child College in the Chippewa-Cree Tribe of Rocky Boy Montana. I look forward after graduation for the opportunity to apply and gain gainful employment in the public or private sectors of the community. I always wanted to graduate from Chippewa-Cree Tribes, tribal college at Stone Child College ever since I was a teenager and with your help, I can attain my dream of graduating from my tribe’s tribal college in north-central Montana. I have a wife and three children; I am going to college to better my future and the future of my children and my wife. I want to show my two sons and daughter it is ok to take out student loans to go to college, but a person has to be responsible for taking out a student loan and understand the consequences of taking out student loans. A college student loan has to be repaired and when and how you take out a student loan you must either apply for a student loan debt relief or repayment plan along with getting gainful employment that helps out with paying student loans or you must pay out of pocket to pay off student loan while going to college. That is my plan for paying off current and future student loan debt. Thank you Charles Robert Wells

I am studying business management at Stone Child College on Rockyboy Reservation in North Central Montana, home of the Chippewa-Cree Tribe. I am taking business because I am in the process of opening a computer repair business in my hometown. After two years running and owning my business I want to start a non-profit helping elderly people on how to use technology. I am also perusing my 8(a) certification so I cant contract with the U.S. Government. Also in the future I want to go green as much as possible foe the environment.

Rest up, clear your mind, and do your best!

Laws govern the universe and to understand the laws is to unlock the nature of the universe. The bigger picture is connected to us as human beings, we are apart of the universe and to see and observe the universe will help us humans understand ourselves.

I own a wolf hybrid and I think animal advocacy would shed some light on how gentle and shy wolf hybrids are, I owned my wolf hybrid for over 8 years and she is the most gentle wolf that I have ever had. Allot of people are scared of her until they pet her, she looks scary to some but she is my babie.

I currently own 3 dogs and one wolf hybrid. I think wolfs get a bad rap, my wolf dog is one of the most gentile, caring, loving hybrids that I ever had, she is 8 years old and would not hurt anything. my wolf hybrid even protects my cat as well. My wolf hybrid helps me stay in shape and she shows me how to be kind and gentile, other people are scared when they see her as she is half timber wolf 1/4 husky and 1/4 malamute. I love her she is my dog but to other people she is a wolf.

When I was three year old I lost my mom to cancer, fast forward 8 year and I lot my older sister who was 16 to a car wreck, and finally 10 years ago I lost my oldest sister to stomach cancer as well. I had my own health issues, I had to have open heart surgery where they had to cut muscle from the inside of my left chamber out or else I would have died. I still did not give up, that what my mom and older sister instilled into me! I still want a future and I am going back to college to get It!

My name is Charles and I live on the Flathead Reservation in northwest Montana, I am in the begging stages of owning a Computer Repair Business, but I went back to college in Business Administration to get a degree so I could run my business professionally. I want to set an example for all the people livening on a reservation, that you don't need to move off of the reservation to become successful, and that to me is a strong role of leadership I hope to instill into the community.

Binary Computer Repair, I started a local computer repair business in the state of Montana on the Flathead Indian Reservation, I wanted to pursue my dream of becoming my own boss, I want to make a better future for my family, myself and, my community. I love to troubleshoot and fix things that is my passion.

Knowledge is power that’s what my dad used to tell me as a child, my father who is 5/8 Chippewa from the Rockyboy Reservation never finished the 8th grade. I think knowledge is the great equalizer and that is what I am pursuing by going to college. With the help of you scholarship I can achieve my goals in life.

My nephews truck was stranded and my sister was stuck on the side of the road because she had used our nephews truck to go to college. I got the call to help so I drove to the broken down truck, I tried everything to start it and was at a loss. I pulled out my phone went onto YouTube and watched a video explaining all the problems the truck was having and how to fix it with a wire to jump a fuse in the fuse box. I followed the example and boom the truck started, I was amazed and happy at the same time, my sister drove it home and everything worked after that.

When I look at a piece of metal I know it wants to be more, I like to tell a story about my artwork. I am from two worlds my mothers family was from Norway and she is Norwegian and Sami, My father is Chippewa from the Chippewa Cree Tribe of Rocky Boy Montana. When I look at or make art I like to tell a story about an event or person or place. I love making art out of simple items like metal to tell a story or a picture I took on one of my travels.

I look at life now as how much I can achieve in the amount of time I have left, a full life does not have to mean that you will live to be an elder. I take it a day at a time and make the best of each day as if it were my last. I enjoy life's little secrets like the sun shinning on my face, or the wind blowing threw my hair, the birds signing, or people laughing. I take a moment each day to see life and I an thankful I am still with it.

The never give up quality is what I value the most. My mother passed away when I was 4 years old from cancer, she fought unroll her last day, My oldest sister fought cancer for on and off 20 years had to have her stomach removed and she lived another ten years after that but passed at 45. I have a heart defect that almost killed me 2 years ago, I had to have open heart surgery and the had to cut muscle out of the inside of my heart, I fought everyday to survive for over a month in the hospital until I was released to go home, got COVID-19 had to have a defibrillator put inside my chest and got shocked over three times, had to say in the emergency room a couple of times! I never gave up, I could not work so I went to college, I survived COVID-19, having muscle cut out from inside my heart and having to get a defibrillator put in my chest! I still want a future and I need funds to help me achieve my goals in my life. I want to thank you for reading my story and for putting hopes to my dreams.

One day at a time, I would incorporate clean living practices, for my mind, body and future well being.

I came from a poor undereducated hard working family, My dad always told me to go to college, I am going to better my future, for myself and my kids.