It took me some time to think about my strengths as this year has been quite the challenge for me mentally, physically, and emotionally during a Global Pandemic. Right after covid had broken out I had just been diagnosed with Cancer, Hodgkin’s Lymphoma for a second time and was caught completely off guard. All the strengths I thought I held near and close to my heart had waivered or been challenged as I was hit with one medical issue after another. On top of that spending 8 months in a sterile hospital room with no interaction with friends, family, or time outside of my room was tough. Your strengths start to feel like they are a distant memory of things you once embodied. With that said I had to dig deep into the things that loved ones reminded me I was. Did I believe it at the time, was another question. After reviewing my values, I felt it had ultimately initiated my strengths, both going hand and hand with one another. I spent a lot of time reflecting on myself of who I was good and bad. I believe we should always be aware of who we are, as there is room for improvement. Maybe this time around I’d give myself grace in certain areas. I thought I had no longer processed those qualities and strengths because I wasn’t able to practice those things, as I was in a place of needing to be consoled and not the consoler. Time has become very precious commodity to me. I looked at my Values as my Mantra, for how I would operate in life. Have you ever heard the phrase “you are a product of your environment?” I truly believe that to be very real today. My values affected my career choices in more ways than one, it opened and closed doors of opportunities to exercise my loyalty and selflessness. It all started back in 2008, the first time I had cancer. As a woman, your self-esteem, confidence, looks, and feel different before treatment vs. post-treatment. Being a cosmetologist, I want to serve my fellow cancer patients in a different capacity. That’s where my value of selflessness kicked into gear. As soon as I started to feel better from treatment, I started to volunteer in the oncology department. I utilized my skills, experience, and styled wigs in cut and color. Medications can leave you feeling and looking a lovely pale-yellow grey. I couldn’t accept that, so I also was a cosmetics educator and started offering makeup classes. All of this was free of charge and something I coordinated myself. The patient's smiles and gratitude were the best payment of all. If I’m being transparent becoming more confident in my ability despite my disability. My values have changed over time. I would have to say maturity and life experiences have influenced the change. Now 13 years later being diagnosed with Cancer, a worst diagnosis and treatment plan without high success rates and a rigorous bone marrow transplant has been a huge catalyst. When you're faced with life-threatening experiences and death is knocking on your door just a tad sooner than expected, your perspective, outlook, and priorities shift & change. I know the challenges these patients face mentally, physically, and emotionally can be brutal. I may not know exactly what you are going through, but I have somewhat of an idea. I began reevaluating the “purpose behind my pain”. My purpose is to serve alongside the patients as a nurse for patients in their own medical challenges, as their pain is now my purpose!

It took me some time to think about my strengths as this year has been quite the challenge for me mentally, physically, and emotionally during a Global Pandemic. Right after covid had broken out I had just been diagnosed with Cancer, Hodgkin’s Lymphoma for a second time and was caught completely off guard. All the strengths I thought I held near and close to my heart had waivered or been challenged as I was hit with one medical issue after another. On top of that spending 8 months in a sterile hospital room with no interaction with friends, family, or time outside of my room was tough. Your strengths start to feel like they are a distant memory of things you once embodied. With that said I had to dig deep into the things that loved ones reminded me I was. Did I believe it at the time, was another question. After reviewing my values, I felt it had ultimately initiated my strengths, both going hand and hand with one another. I spent a lot of time reflecting on myself of who I was good and bad. I believe we should always be aware of who we are, as there is room for improvement. Maybe this time around I’d give myself grace in certain areas. I thought I had no longer processed those qualities and strengths because I wasn’t able to practice those things, as I was in a place of needing to be consoled and not the consoler. Time has become very precious commodity to me. I looked at my Values as my Mantra, for how I would operate in life. Have you ever heard the phrase “you are a product of your environment?” I truly believe that to be very real today. My values affected my career choices in more ways than one, it opened and closed doors of opportunities to exercise my loyalty and selflessness. It all started back in 2008, the first time I had cancer. As a woman, your self-esteem, confidence, looks, and feel different before treatment vs. post-treatment. Being a cosmetologist, I want to serve my fellow cancer patients in a different capacity. That’s where my value of selflessness kicked into gear. As soon as I started to feel better from treatment, I started to volunteer in the oncology department. I utilized my skills, experience and styled wigs in cut and color. Medications can leave you feeling and looking a lovely pale-yellow grey. I couldn’t accept that, so I also was a cosmetics educator and started offering makeup classes. All of this was free of charge and something I coordinated myself. The patient's smiles and gratitude were the best payment of all. If I’m being transparent becoming more confident in my ability despite my disability. My values have changed over time. I would have to say maturity and life experiences have influenced the change. Now 13 years later being diagnosed with Cancer, a worst diagnosis and treatment plan without high success rates and a rigorous bone marrow transplant has been a huge catalyst. When you're faced with life-threatening experiences and death is knocking on your door just a tad sooner than expected, your perspective, outlook, and priorities shift & change. I know the challenges these patients face mentally, physically, and emotionally can be brutal. I may not know exactly what you are going through, but I have somewhat of an idea. I began reevaluating the “purpose behind my pain”. My purpose is to serve alongside the patients as a nurse for patients in their own medical challenges, as their pain is now my purpose!

It took me some time to think about my strengths as this year has been quite the challenge for me mentally, physically, and emotionally during a Global Pandemic. Right after covid had broken out I had just been diagnosed with Cancer, Hodgkin’s Lymphoma for a second time and was caught completely off guard. All the strengths I thought I held near and close to my heart had waivered or been challenged as I was hit with one medical issue after another. On top of that spending 8 months in a sterile hospital room with no interaction with friends, family, or time outside of my room was tough. Your strengths start to feel like they are a distant memory of things you once embodied. With that said I had to dig deep into the things that loved ones reminded me I was. Did I believe it at the time, was another question. After reviewing my values, I felt it had ultimately initiated my strengths, both going hand and hand with one another. I spent a lot of time reflecting on myself of who I was good and bad. I believe we should always be aware of who we are, as there is room for improvement. Maybe this time around I’d give myself grace in certain areas. I thought I had no longer processed those qualities and strengths because I wasn’t able to practice those things, as I was in a place of needing to be consoled and not the consoler. Time has become very precious commodity to me. I looked at my Values as my Mantra, for how I would operate in life. Have you ever heard the phrase “you are a product of your environment?” I truly believe that to be very real today. My values affected my career choices in more ways than one, it opened and closed doors of opportunities to exercise my loyalty and selflessness. It all started back in 2008, the first time I had cancer. As a woman, your self-esteem, confidence, looks, and feel different before treatment vs. post-treatment. Being a cosmetologist, I want to serve my fellow cancer patients in a different capacity. That’s where my value of selflessness kicked into gear. As soon as I started to feel better from treatment, I started to volunteer in the oncology department. I utilized my skills, experience, and styled wigs in cut and color. Medications can leave you feeling and looking a lovely pale-yellow grey. I couldn’t accept that, so I also was a cosmetics educator and started offering makeup classes. All of this was free of charge and something I coordinated myself. The patient's smiles and gratitude were the best payment of all. If I’m being transparent becoming more confident in my ability despite my disability. My values have changed over time. I would have to say maturity and life experiences have influenced the change. Now 13 years later being diagnosed with Cancer, a worst diagnosis and treatment plan without high success rates and a rigorous bone marrow transplant has been a huge catalyst. When you're faced with life-threatening experiences and death is knocking on your door just a tad sooner than expected, your perspective, outlook, and priorities shift & change. I know the challenges these patients face mentally, physically, and emotionally can be brutal. I may not know exactly what you are going through, but I have somewhat of an idea. I began reevaluating the “purpose behind my pain”. My purpose is to serve alongside the patients as a nurse for patients in their own medical challenges, as their pain is now my purpose!

It took me some time to think about my strengths as this year has been quite the challenge for me mentally, physically, and emotionally during a Global Pandemic. Right after covid had broken out I had just been diagnosed with Cancer, Hodgkin’s Lymphoma for a second time and was caught completely off guard. All the strengths I thought I held near and close to my heart had waivered or been challenged as I was hit with one medical issue after another. On top of that spending 8 months in a sterile hospital room with no interaction with friends, family, or time outside of my room was tough. Your strengths start to feel like they are a distant memory of things you once embodied. With that said I had to dig deep into the things that loved ones reminded me I was. Did I believe it at the time, was another question. After reviewing my values, I felt it had ultimately initiated my strengths, both going hand and hand with one another. I spent a lot of time reflecting on myself of who I was good and bad. I believe we should always be aware of who we are, as there is room for improvement. Maybe this time around I’d give myself grace in certain areas. I thought I had no longer processed those qualities and strengths because I wasn’t able to practice those things, as I was in a place of needing to be consoled and not the consoler. Time has become very precious commodity to me. I looked at my Values as my Mantra, for how I would operate in life. Have you ever heard the phrase “you are a product of your environment?” I truly believe that to be very real today. My values affected my career choices in more ways than one, it opened and closed doors of opportunities to exercise my loyalty and selflessness. It all started back in 2008, the first time I had cancer. As a woman, your self-esteem, confidence, looks, and feel different before treatment vs. post-treatment. Being a cosmetologist, I want to serve my fellow cancer patients in a different capacity. That’s where my value of selflessness kicked into gear. As soon as I started to feel better from treatment, I started to volunteer in the oncology department. I utilized my skills, experience and styled wigs in cut and color. Medications can leave you feeling and looking a lovely pale-yellow grey. I couldn’t accept that, so I also was a cosmetics educator and started offering makeup classes. All of this was free of charge and something I coordinated myself. The patient's smiles and gratitude were the best payment of all. If I’m being transparent becoming more confident in my ability despite my disability. My values have changed over time. I would have to say maturity and life experiences have influenced the change. Now 13 years later being diagnosed with Cancer, a worst diagnosis and treatment plan without high success rates and a rigorous bone marrow transplant has been a huge catalyst. When you're faced with life-threatening experiences and death is knocking on your door just a tad sooner than expected, your perspective, outlook, and priorities shift & change. I know the challenges these patients face mentally, physically, and emotionally can be brutal. I may not know exactly what you are going through, but I have somewhat of an idea. I began reevaluating the “purpose behind my pain”. My purpose is to serve alongside the patients as a nurse for patients in their own medical challenges, as their pain is now my purpose!

Right after covid had broken out I had just been diagnosed with Cancer, for a second time and was caught completely off guard. All the strengths I thought I held near and close to my heart had waivered or been challenged, as I was hit with one medical issue after another. On top of that spending 8 months in a sterile hospital room with no interaction of friends, family, or time outside of my room was tough. Your strengths start to feel like they are distant memory of things you once embodied. I had to dig deep off the things that loved ones reminded me I was. If I believed it at the time, was another question? After reviewing my values, I felt it had ultimately initiated my strengths, both going hand and hand with one another. I spent a lot of time reflecting with myself of who I was, good and bad. I believe we should always be aware of who we really are, as there is room for growth. I thought I had no longer processed those qualities and strengths because I wasn’t able to practice those things, as I was in a place of needing to be consoled and not the consoler. Time has been become very precious commodity to me. I looked at my Values as my Mantra, in how I would operate in life. Have you ever heard the phrase “you are a product of your environment?” I truly believe that to be very real today. My values affected my careers choices in more ways than one, it opened and closed doors of opportunities to exercise my loyalty and selflessness. It all started back in 2008, the first time I had cancer. As a woman your self-esteem, confidence, looks, feel totally different prior to treatment vs. post treatment. Being a cosmetologist, I want to serve my fellow cancer patients in a different capacity. That’s where my value of selflessness really kicked into gear. As soon as I started to feel better from treatment, I started to volunteer in the oncology department. I utilized my skills, experience and styled wigs in cut and color. Medications can leave you feeling and looking a lovely pale-yellow grey. I couldn’t except that, so I also was a cosmetics educator and started offering make up classes. All of these was free of charge and something I coordinated myself. The patients smiles and gratitude were the best payment of all. If I’m being transparent becoming more confident in my ability despite of my disability. My values have definitely changed over time. I would have to say maturity and life experiences has influenced the change. Now 13 years later being diagnosed with Cancer, a worst diagnosis and treatment plan without not high success rates and a rigorous bone marrow transplant have been a huge catalyst. When your faced with life threatening experiences and death is knocking on your door just a tad sooner than expected, your perspective, outlook, priorities shift and change. My values are vital to my existence! I know the challenges these patients face mentally, physically, and emotionally can be brutal. I could encourage them now that I’ve been on both sides of the bed and say, "I may not know exactly what you are going through, but I have somewhat of an idea". The once very important ideas, egos, and accomplishments go out the window and you begin reevaluating the “purpose behind my pain”. My purpose is to serve alongside the patients as a nurse, for patients in their own medical challenges, as their pain is now my purpose!

Right after covid had broken out I had just been diagnosed with Cancer, for a second time and was caught completely off guard. All the strengths I thought I held near and close to my heart had waivered or been challenged, as I was hit with one medical issue after another. On top of that spending 8 months in a sterile hospital room with no interaction of friends, family, or time outside of my room was tough. Your strengths start to feel like they are distant memory of things you once embodied. I had to dig deep off the things that loved ones reminded me I was. If I believed it at the time, was another question? After reviewing my values, I felt it had ultimately initiated my strengths, both going hand and hand with one another. I spent a lot of time reflecting with myself of who I was, good and bad. I believe we should always be aware of who we really are, as there is room for growth. I thought I had no longer processed those qualities and strengths because I wasn’t able to practice those things, as I was in a place of needing to be consoled and not the consoler. Time has been become very precious commodity to me. I looked at my Values as my Mantra, in how I would operate in life. Have you ever heard the phrase “you are a product of your environment?” I truly believe that to be very real today. My values affected my careers choices in more ways than one, it opened and closed doors of opportunities to exercise my loyalty and selflessness. It all started back in 2008, the first time I had cancer. As a woman your self-esteem, confidence, looks, feel totally different prior to treatment vs. post treatment. Being a cosmetologist, I want to serve my fellow cancer patients in a different capacity. That’s where my value of selflessness really kicked into gear. As soon as I started to feel better from treatment, I started to volunteer in the oncology department. I utilized my skills, experience and styled wigs in cut and color. Medications can leave you feeling and looking a lovely pale-yellow grey. I couldn’t except that, so I also was a cosmetics educator and started offering make up classes. All of these was free of charge and something I coordinated myself. The patients smiles and gratitude were the best payment of all. If I’m being transparent becoming more confident in my ability despite of my disability. My values have definitely changed over time. I would have to say maturity and life experiences has influenced the change. Now 13 years later being diagnosed with Cancer, a worst diagnosis and treatment plan without not high success rates and a rigorous bone marrow transplant have been a huge catalyst. When your faced with life threatening experiences and death is knocking on your door just a tad sooner than expected, your perspective, outlook, priorities shift and change. My values are vital to my existence! I know the challenges these patients face mentally, physically, and emotionally can be brutal. I could encourage them now that I’ve been on both sides of the bed and say, "I may not know exactly what you are going through, but I have somewhat of an idea". The once very important ideas, egos, and accomplishments go out the window and you begin reevaluating the “purpose behind my pain”. My purpose is to serve alongside the patients as a nurse, for patients in their own medical challenges, as their pain is now my purpose!

Right after covid had broken out I had just been diagnosed with Cancer, for a second time and was caught completely off guard. All the strengths I thought I held near and close to my heart had waivered or been challenged, as I was hit with one medical issue after another. On top of that spending 8 months in a sterile hospital room with no interaction of friends, family, or time outside of my room was tough. Your strengths start to feel like they are distant memory of things you once embodied. I had to dig deep off the things that loved ones reminded me I was. If I believed it at the time, was another question? After reviewing my values, I felt it had ultimately initiated my strengths, both going hand and hand with one another. I spent a lot of time reflecting with myself of who I was, good and bad. I believe we should always be aware of who we really are, as there is room for growth. I thought I had no longer processed those qualities and strengths because I wasn’t able to practice those things, as I was in a place of needing to be consoled and not the consoler. Time has been become very precious commodity to me. I looked at my Values as my Mantra, in how I would operate in life. Have you ever heard the phrase “you are a product of your environment?” I truly believe that to be very real today. My values affected my careers choices in more ways than one, it opened and closed doors of opportunities to exercise my loyalty and selflessness. It all started back in 2008, the first time I had cancer. As a woman your self-esteem, confidence, looks, feel totally different prior to treatment vs. post treatment. Being a cosmetologist, I want to serve my fellow cancer patients in a different capacity. That’s where my value of selflessness really kicked into gear. As soon as I started to feel better from treatment, I started to volunteer in the oncology department. I utilized my skills, experience and styled wigs in cut and color. Medications can leave you feeling and looking a lovely pale-yellow grey. I couldn’t except that, so I also was a cosmetics educator and started offering make up classes. All of these was free of charge and something I coordinated myself. The patients smiles and gratitude were the best payment of all. If I’m being transparent becoming more confident in my ability despite of my disability. My values have definitely changed over time. I would have to say maturity and life experiences has influenced the change. Now 13 years later being diagnosed with Cancer, a worst diagnosis and treatment plan without not high success rates and a rigorous bone marrow transplant have been a huge catalyst. When your faced with life threatening experiences and death is knocking on your door just a tad sooner than expected, your perspective, outlook, priorities shift and change. My values are vital to my existence! I know the challenges these patients face mentally, physically, and emotionally can be brutal. I could encourage them now that I’ve been on both sides of the bed and say, "I may not know exactly what you are going through, but I have somewhat of an idea". The once very important ideas, egos, and accomplishments go out the window and you begin reevaluating the “purpose behind my pain”. My purpose is to serve alongside the patients as a nurse, for patients in their own medical challenges, as their pain is now my purpose!

Right after covid had broken out I had just been diagnosed with Cancer, for a second time and was caught completely off guard. All the strengths I thought I held near and close to my heart had waivered or been challenged, as I was hit with one medical issue after another. On top of that spending 8 months in a sterile hospital room with no interaction of friends, family, or time outside of my room was tough. Your strengths start to feel like they are distant memory of things you once embodied. I had to dig deep off the things that loved ones reminded me I was. If I believed it at the time, was another question? After reviewing my values, I felt it had ultimately initiated my strengths, both going hand and hand with one another. I spent a lot of time reflecting with myself of who I was, good and bad. I believe we should always be aware of who we really are, as there is room for growth. I thought I had no longer processed those qualities and strengths because I wasn’t able to practice those things, as I was in a place of needing to be consoled and not the consoler. Time has been become very precious commodity to me. I looked at my Values as my Mantra, in how I would operate in life. Have you ever heard the phrase “you are a product of your environment?” I truly believe that to be very real today. My values affected my careers choices in more ways than one, it opened and closed doors of opportunities to exercise my loyalty and selflessness. It all started back in 2008, the first time I had cancer. As a woman your self-esteem, confidence, looks, feel totally different prior to treatment vs. post treatment. Being a cosmetologist, I want to serve my fellow cancer patients in a different capacity. That’s where my value of selflessness really kicked into gear. As soon as I started to feel better from treatment, I started to volunteer in the oncology department. I utilized my skills, experience and styled wigs in cut and color. Medications can leave you feeling and looking a lovely pale-yellow grey. I couldn’t except that, so I also was a cosmetics educator and started offering make up classes. All of these was free of charge and something I coordinated myself. The patients smiles and gratitude were the best payment of all. If I’m being transparent becoming more confident in my ability despite of my disability. My values have definitely changed over time. I would have to say maturity and life experiences has influenced the change. Now 13 years later being diagnosed with Cancer, a worst diagnosis and treatment plan without not high success rates and a rigorous bone marrow transplant have been a huge catalyst. When your faced with life threatening experiences and death is knocking on your door just a tad sooner than expected, your perspective, outlook, priorities shift and change. My values are vital to my existence! I know the challenges these patients face mentally, physically, and emotionally can be brutal. I could encourage them now that I’ve been on both sides of the bed and say, "I may not know exactly what you are going through, but I have somewhat of an idea". The once very important ideas, egos, and accomplishments go out the window and you begin reevaluating the “purpose behind my pain”. My purpose is to serve alongside the patients as a nurse, for patients in their own medical challenges, as their pain is now my purpose!

Right after covid had broken out I had just been diagnosed with Cancer, for a second time and was caught completely off guard. All the strengths I thought I held near and close to my heart had waivered or been challenged, as I was hit with one medical issue after another. On top of that spending 8 months in a sterile hospital room with no interaction of friends, family, or time outside of my room was tough. Your strengths start to feel like they are distant memory of things you once embodied. I had to dig deep off the things that loved ones reminded me I was. If I believed it at the time, was another question? After reviewing my values, I felt it had ultimately initiated my strengths, both going hand and hand with one another. I spent a lot of time reflecting with myself of who I was, good and bad. I believe we should always be aware of who we really are, as there is room for growth. I thought I had no longer processed those qualities and strengths because I wasn’t able to practice those things, as I was in a place of needing to be consoled and not the consoler. Time has been become very precious commodity to me. I looked at my Values as my Mantra, in how I would operate in life. Have you ever heard the phrase “you are a product of your environment?” I truly believe that to be very real today. My values affected my careers choices in more ways than one, it opened and closed doors of opportunities to exercise my loyalty and selflessness. It all started back in 2008, the first time I had cancer. As a woman your self-esteem, confidence, looks, feel totally different prior to treatment vs. post treatment. Being a cosmetologist, I want to serve my fellow cancer patients in a different capacity. That’s where my value of selflessness really kicked into gear. As soon as I started to feel better from treatment, I started to volunteer in the oncology department. I utilized my skills, experience and styled wigs in cut and color. Medications can leave you feeling and looking a lovely pale-yellow grey. I couldn’t except that, so I also was a cosmetics educator and started offering make up classes. All of these was free of charge and something I coordinated myself. The patients smiles and gratitude were the best payment of all. If I’m being transparent becoming more confident in my ability despite of my disability. My values have definitely changed over time. I would have to say maturity and life experiences has influenced the change. Now 13 years later being diagnosed with Cancer, a worst diagnosis and treatment plan without not high success rates and a rigorous bone marrow transplant have been a huge catalyst. When your faced with life threatening experiences and death is knocking on your door just a tad sooner than expected, your perspective, outlook, priorities shift and change. My values are vital to my existence! I know the challenges these patients face mentally, physically, and emotionally can be brutal. I could encourage them now that I’ve been on both sides of the bed and say, "I may not know exactly what you are going through, but I have somewhat of an idea". The once very important ideas, egos, and accomplishments go out the window and you begin reevaluating the “purpose behind my pain”. My purpose is to serve alongside the patients as a nurse, for patients in their own medical challenges, as their pain is now my purpose!

Right after covid had broken out I had just been diagnosed with Cancer, for a second time and was caught completely off guard. All the strengths I thought I held near and close to my heart had waivered or been challenged, as I was hit with one medical issue after another. On top of that spending 8 months in a sterile hospital room with no interaction of friends, family, or time outside of my room was tough. Your strengths start to feel like they are distant memory of things you once embodied. I had to dig deep off the things that loved ones reminded me I was. If I believed it at the time, was another question? After reviewing my values, I felt it had ultimately initiated my strengths, both going hand and hand with one another. I spent a lot of time reflecting with myself of who I was, good and bad. I believe we should always be aware of who we really are, as there is room for growth. I thought I had no longer processed those qualities and strengths because I wasn’t able to practice those things, as I was in a place of needing to be consoled and not the consoler. Time has been become very precious commodity to me. I looked at my Values as my Mantra, in how I would operate in life. Have you ever heard the phrase “you are a product of your environment?” I truly believe that to be very real today. My values affected my careers choices in more ways than one, it opened and closed doors of opportunities to exercise my loyalty and selflessness. It all started back in 2008, the first time I had cancer. As a woman your self-esteem, confidence, looks, feel totally different prior to treatment vs. post treatment. Being a cosmetologist, I want to serve my fellow cancer patients in a different capacity. That’s where my value of selflessness really kicked into gear. As soon as I started to feel better from treatment, I started to volunteer in the oncology department. I utilized my skills, experience and styled wigs in cut and color. Medications can leave you feeling and looking a lovely pale-yellow grey. I couldn’t except that, so I also was a cosmetics educator and started offering make up classes. All of these was free of charge and something I coordinated myself. The patients smiles and gratitude were the best payment of all. If I’m being transparent becoming more confident in my ability despite of my disability. My values have definitely changed over time. I would have to say maturity and life experiences has influenced the change. Now 13 years later being diagnosed with Cancer, a worst diagnosis and treatment plan without not high success rates and a rigorous bone marrow transplant have been a huge catalyst. When your faced with life threatening experiences and death is knocking on your door just a tad sooner than expected, your perspective, outlook, priorities shift and change. My values are vital to my existence! I know the challenges these patients face mentally, physically, and emotionally can be brutal. I could encourage them now that I’ve been on both sides of the bed and say, "I may not know exactly what you are going through, but I have somewhat of an idea". The once very important ideas, egos, and accomplishments go out the window and you begin reevaluating the “purpose behind my pain”. My purpose is to serve alongside the patients as a nurse, for patients in their own medical challenges, as their pain is now my purpose!

Right after covid had broken out I had just been diagnosed with Cancer, for a second time and was caught completely off guard. All the strengths I thought I held near and close to my heart had waivered or been challenged, as I was hit with one medical issue after another. On top of that spending 8 months in a sterile hospital room with no interaction of friends, family, or time outside of my room was tough. Your strengths start to feel like they are distant memory of things you once embodied. I had to dig deep off the things that loved ones reminded me I was. If I believed it at the time, was another question? After reviewing my values, I felt it had ultimately initiated my strengths, both going hand and hand with one another. I spent a lot of time reflecting with myself of who I was, good and bad. I believe we should always be aware of who we really are, as there is room for growth. I thought I had no longer processed those qualities and strengths because I wasn’t able to practice those things, as I was in a place of needing to be consoled and not the consoler. Time has been become very precious commodity to me. I looked at my Values as my Mantra, in how I would operate in life. Have you ever heard the phrase “you are a product of your environment?” I truly believe that to be very real today. My values affected my careers choices in more ways than one, it opened and closed doors of opportunities to exercise my loyalty and selflessness. It all started back in 2008, the first time I had cancer. As a woman your self-esteem, confidence, looks, feel totally different prior to treatment vs. post treatment. Being a cosmetologist, I want to serve my fellow cancer patients in a different capacity. That’s where my value of selflessness really kicked into gear. As soon as I started to feel better from treatment, I started to volunteer in the oncology department. I utilized my skills, experience and styled wigs in cut and color. Medications can leave you feeling and looking a lovely pale-yellow grey. I couldn’t except that, so I also was a cosmetics educator and started offering make up classes. All of these was free of charge and something I coordinated myself. The patients smiles and gratitude were the best payment of all. If I’m being transparent becoming more confident in my ability despite of my disability. My values have definitely changed over time. I would have to say maturity and life experiences has influenced the change. Now 13 years later being diagnosed with Cancer, a worst diagnosis and treatment plan without not high success rates and a rigorous bone marrow transplant have been a huge catalyst. When your faced with life threatening experiences and death is knocking on your door just a tad sooner than expected, your perspective, outlook, priorities shift and change. My values are vital to my existence! I know the challenges these patients face mentally, physically, and emotionally can be brutal. I could encourage them now that I’ve been on both sides of the bed and say, "I may not know exactly what you are going through, but I have somewhat of an idea". The once very important ideas, egos, and accomplishments go out the window and you begin reevaluating the “purpose behind my pain”. My purpose is to serve alongside the patients as a nurse, for patients in their own medical challenges, as their pain is now my purpose!

Right after covid had broken out I had just been diagnosed with Cancer, for a second time and was caught completely off guard. All the strengths I thought I held near and close to my heart had waivered or been challenged, as I was hit with one medical issue after another. On top of that spending 8 months in a sterile hospital room with no interaction of friends, family, or time outside of my room was tough. Your strengths start to feel like they are distant memory of things you once embodied. I had to dig deep off the things that loved ones reminded me I was. If I believed it at the time, was another question? After reviewing my values, I felt it had ultimately initiated my strengths, both going hand and hand with one another. I spent a lot of time reflecting with myself of who I was, good and bad. I believe we should always be aware of who we really are, as there is room for growth. I thought I had no longer processed those qualities and strengths because I wasn’t able to practice those things, as I was in a place of needing to be consoled and not the consoler. Time has been become very precious commodity to me. I looked at my Values as my Mantra, in how I would operate in life. Have you ever heard the phrase “you are a product of your environment?” I truly believe that to be very real today. My values affected my careers choices in more ways than one, it opened and closed doors of opportunities to exercise my loyalty and selflessness. It all started back in 2008, the first time I had cancer. As a woman your self-esteem, confidence, looks, feel totally different prior to treatment vs. post treatment. Being a cosmetologist, I want to serve my fellow cancer patients in a different capacity. That’s where my value of selflessness really kicked into gear. As soon as I started to feel better from treatment, I started to volunteer in the oncology department. I utilized my skills, experience and styled wigs in cut and color. Medications can leave you feeling and looking a lovely pale-yellow grey. I couldn’t except that, so I also was a cosmetics educator and started offering make up classes. All of these was free of charge and something I coordinated myself. The patients smiles and gratitude were the best payment of all. If I’m being transparent becoming more confident in my ability despite of my disability. My values have definitely changed over time. I would have to say maturity and life experiences has influenced the change. Now 13 years later being diagnosed with Cancer, a worst diagnosis and treatment plan without not high success rates and a rigorous bone marrow transplant have been a huge catalyst. When your faced with life threatening experiences and death is knocking on your door just a tad sooner than expected, your perspective, outlook, priorities shift and change. My values are vital to my existence! I know the challenges these patients face mentally, physically, and emotionally can be brutal. I could encourage them now that I’ve been on both sides of the bed and say, "I may not know exactly what you are going through, but I have somewhat of an idea". The once very important ideas, egos, and accomplishments go out the window and you begin reevaluating the “purpose behind my pain”. My purpose is to serve alongside the patients as a nurse, for patients in their own medical challenges, as their pain is now my purpose!

“Food is fuel, eat to live, don’t live to eat.” This quote my grandfather Robert lived by and made a choice to give up red meat at the age of 40 and continuously adjusted his diet as the public was updated through the decades of what was considered “healthy”. So, as I reflect “What the Health” is going on in today society is mass confusion, contradiction, and misconception. I say this because media, government, and health care officials for far too long have misinformed the public. For those who are aware aren’t given the platform or attention they deserve to share, inform, and guide due to self-seeking culture we live in today. Money talks…. The reason I mentioned my grandfather was the ultimate model of what we would consider healthy. He lived a very active lifestyle swam every day for an hour and ran for 5-7 miles everyday rain or shine. Now remember I mentioned he would adjust his diet under doctor recommendations, chicken, turkey, or fish along with all the fruits and veggies he could get his hands on. He avoided sugar, salt, and fatty foods. Little did he know the animal products he was still consuming was manifesting cancer that would eventually be his demise. I am myself take health very seriously as I am currently battling for a second time. The fall out of cancer is immense for me it has made me infertile following a transplant. The reason for sharing this is because his life was the parallel what so many of us face today. Why? It stirred so many different emotions, I really don’t even know where to start…. I was upset, hurt, frustrated, and empathetic for all the people, animals, and environment that our food choices affect to infect. I’m upset because the goods that we consume,that are a cacogenics should be labeled with warnings and treated as such. We have commercials on the results of smoking, drinking, and reading slogans like “don’t do drugs”, but nothing saying to our youth, where most of our eating habits are established “meat is mean”. The reason I’m hurt is because we should know “Hot Dog on a Stick” as “Cancer on a Stick”. But to others it’s viewed as a fun convenient eatery. My heart goes out to the communities of where there is a direct affect to the people living in these areas. The lack of empathy of Major distributors and its CEO’s is sickening. Health as become my biggest commodity yet! Its much easier to turn a blind eye than to deal with any issue. My frustration stems from the lack or exposure of nutritional education for medical professionals and public are crucial. I believe it’s something that should be mandated. It starts with us to make a change. To remain informed, get involved with legislative decisions, and choose a plant-based lifestyle. Its very exciting to see more products, eateries, and options available. Unfortunately, we are far from done. Like my family if its not brought to their attention through medical professionals or on the news they will remain the same. We live in a culture of convenience. I believe that we need to get to a point of having the same options that non vegans have when it comes to products, eateries, and medical professionals’ establishments. we all have a carbon footprint and it’s time to ask ourselves where will we plant our feet? We have one planet with one life to live. With that said keep in mind “What the Health” is really going on here?

Right after covid had broken out I had just been diagnosed with Cancer, for a second time and was caught completely off guard. All the strengths I thought I held near and close to my heart had waivered or been challenged, as I was hit with one medical issue after another. On top of that spending 8 months in a sterile hospital room with no interaction of friends, family, or time outside of my room was tough. Your strengths start to feel like they are distant memory of things you once embodied. I had to dig deep off the things that loved ones reminded me I was. If I believe it at the time, was another question? After reviewing my values, I felt it had ultimately initiated my strengths, both going hand and hand with one another. I spent a lot of time reflecting with myself of who I was, good and bad. I believe we should always be aware of who we really are, as there is room for growth. I thought I had no longer processed those qualities and strengths because I wasn’t able to practice those things, as I was in a place of needing to be consoled and not the consoler. Time has been become very precious commodity to me. I looked at my Values as my Mantra, in how I would operate in life. Have you ever heard the phrase “you are a product of your environment?” I truly believe that to be very real today.My values affected my careers choices in more ways than one, it opened and closed doors of opportunities to exercise my loyalty and selflessness. It all started back in 2008, the first time I had cancer. As a woman your self-esteem, confidence, looks, feel totally different prior to treatment vs. post treatment. Being a cosmetologist, I want to serve my fellow cancer patients in a different capacity. That’s where my value of selflessness really kicked into gear. As soon as I started to feel better from treatment, I started to volunteer in the oncology department. I utilized my skills, experience and styled wigs in cut and color. Medications can leave you feeling and looking a lovely pale-yellow grey. I couldn’t except that, so I also was a cosmetics educator and started offering make up classes. All of these was free of charge and something I coordinated myself. The patients smiles and gratitude were the best payment of all. If I’m being transparent becoming more confident in my ability despite of my disability. My values have definitely changed over time. I would have to say maturity and life experiences has influenced the change. Now 13 years later being diagnosed with Cancer, a worst diagnosis and treatment plan without not high success rates and a rigorous bone marrow transplant have been a huge catalyst. When your faced with life threatening experiences and death is knocking on your door just a tad sooner than expected, your perspective, outlook, priorities shift and change. My values are vital to my existence! I know the challenges these patients face mentally, physically, and emotionally can be brutal. I could encourage them now that I’ve been on both sides of the bed and say, "I may not know exactly what you are going through, but I have somewhat of an idea". The once very important ideas, egos, and accomplishments go out the window and you begin reevaluating the “purpose behind my pain”. My purpose is to serve alongside the patients as a nurse, for patients in their own medical challenges, as their pain is now my purpose!

The Gift In many instances, we either tell ourselves or so desperately want to believe everything happens for a reason. We usually associate that phrase when experiencing something negative or dreadful. The most common question we ask ourselves is “Why?” It is usually followed up with “How will this affect and alter my life?” Little did I know my life-altering event would be cancer. I was 21 years old, a milestone for youth. That meant I could walk into any place without issues or limitations. I had my own place and was climbing the ladder in my field of work. It was November 2008 when the rug was pulled right from under my feet, and I suddenly found myself flat on my face. For the past couple of weeks, I had been in and out of hospitals and had seen nine different specialists claiming I was battling something terminal but no one knew what. Fast forward: I had finally received the answer I had anticipated but also very much dreaded. It was December, and I had just closed out November having an attitude of gratitude. Now it was a time of gift giving and celebrating new life because a King was born and his name was Jesus. The gingerbread and pine aromas and the décor that filled my home read “joyful,” “merry,” and “blessed.” It was a cold crisp winter day when my phone rang. The caller ID had read UCLA and the doctor requested that I come in immediately to talk about my results further. Shortly after hanging up I experienced a rollercoaster of emotions in a matter of seconds. The weight of the world was suddenly on my shoulders, crushing every bone in my body, paralyzing me. Two days later I found myself in a cold sterile room being given my prognosis. As the doctor explained what Hodgkin’s lymphoma was, it was like I was hearing a foreign language. I heard the wind whistle in between the sky-rise buildings, I saw tree branches hit the office window, and I felt time stand still. I heard the doctor utter these muffled words: “Christine you have stage IV cancer.” My lips quivered, eyes filled like an ocean, and I felt like my heart had plummeted and anchored to the bottom of my stomach. I was advised that I would start treatment right before Christmas. Little did I know that cancer would be a gift that I would never want to return. After what seemed like a lifetime later, I was laying in a leather recliner waiting for a nurse. My palms were sweating, and my legs were shaking uncontrollably. My IV connected to the PICC lines that were protruding out of my arms made me look like I was part robot. As the meds hit me immediately, I felt as if I was being stung by a thousand bees at once, and I experienced a discomfort that was foreign. Feeling sick was an understatement, as I was white as a ghost. I had been engulfed in fear of what was to come. Would the pain get worse? Would the treatment be successful? And what was chemo going to do to me physically? Even though I was in a chamois-like state, I noticed my hair becoming a new accessory that followed me everywhere I went. Accepting that cancer was a new reality, I chose to change my mindset. Cancer was present in this season of my life, and I wondered how I would equip myself in this storm. I was no longer going to let cancer infect me but affect me for good. Instead of looking at life as a naïve young girl and thinking about what life had to offer me, I challenged myself in what I could offer life. What I was going to do with my time was crucial. The news that took me by surprise was the new headline in my story. That headline read “There is Purpose behind my Pain.” Purpose to never take life for granted and to always rise to the occasion of perseverance. Cancer gifted me in ways nothing else could; it gave life a whole new meaning.

Right after covid had broken out I had just been diagnosed with Cancer, for a second time and was caught completely off guard. All the strengths I thought I held near and close to my heart had waivered or been challenged, as I was hit with one medical issue after another. On top of that spending 8 months in a sterile hospital room with no interaction of friends, family, or time outside of my room was tough. Your strengths start to feel like they are distant memory of things you once embodied. I had to dig deep off the things that loved ones reminded me I was. If I believe it at the time, was another question? After reviewing my values, I felt it had ultimately initiated my strengths, both going hand and hand with one another. I spent a lot of time reflecting with myself of who I was, good and bad. I believe we should always be aware of who we really are, as there is room for growth. I thought I had no longer processed those qualities and strengths because I wasn’t able to practice those things, as I was in a place of needing to be consoled and not the consoler. Time has been become very precious commodity to me. I looked at my Values as my Mantra, in how I would operate in life. Have you ever heard the phrase “you are a product of your environment?” I truly believe that to be very real today. My values affected my careers choices in more ways than one, it opened and closed doors of opportunities to exercise my loyalty and selflessness. It all started back in 2008, the first time I had cancer. As a woman your self-esteem, confidence, looks, feel totally different prior to treatment vs. post treatment. Being a cosmetologist, I want to serve my fellow cancer patients in a different capacity. That’s where my value of selflessness really kicked into gear. As soon as I started to feel better from treatment, I started to volunteer in the oncology department. I utilized my skills, experience and styled wigs in cut and color. Medications can leave you feeling and looking a lovely pale-yellow grey. I couldn’t except that, so I also was a cosmetics educator and started offering make up classes. All of these was free of charge and something I coordinated myself. The patients smiles and gratitude were the best payment of all. If I’m being transparent becoming more confident in my ability despite of my disability. My values have definitely changed over time. I would have to say maturity and life experiences has influenced the change. Now 13 years later being diagnosed with Cancer, a worst diagnosis and treatment plan without not high success rates and a rigorous bone marrow transplant have been a huge catalyst. When your faced with life threatening experiences and death is knocking on your door just a tad sooner than expected, your perspective, outlook, priorities shift and change. My values are vital to my existence! I know the challenges these patients face mentally, physically, and emotionally can be brutal. I could encourage them now that I’ve been on both sides of the bed and say, "I may not know exactly what you are going through, but I have somewhat of an idea". The once very important ideas, egos, and accomplishments go out the window and you begin reevaluating the “purpose behind my pain”. My purpose is to serve alongside the patients as a nurse, for patients in their own medical challenges, as their pain is now my purpose!

I feel that I deserve this scholarship because I didn't except all the wrong opinions of others in my pursuit of pursuing higher education. All the nay sayers who thought I was incapable were "wrong" in my ability despite my disability. For all the times I got the "wrong" answer only pushed me that much further in chasing the "right" answer! I had to remind myself grit don't quit! My academic and career goals may face some blows along the way, but I must always remind myself, I must find my way. My goal is graduate on the honor roll after paying the toll of late nights, tired eyes, and hand that kept holding that pen. You see there is pain behind my purpose, to become a nurse and never look at cancer as a curse!This one time in 2021 I had been diagnosed with cancer for a second time. Death had tried to come knocking on my door but I had to say, "Cancer No More"! I was not just gonna survive but thrive... because guess what "Grit don't Quit". I pray that the one thing I do right is one day tell a patient "its alright", because not everyones right!

I feel that I deserve this scholarship because I didn't except all the wrong opinions of others in my pursuit of pursuing higher education. All the nay sayers who thought I was incapable were "wrong" in my ability despite my disability. For all the times I got the "wrong" answer only pushed me that much further in chasing the "right" answer! I had to remind myself grit don't quit! My academic and career goals may face some blows along the way, but I must always remind myself, I must find my way. My goal is graduate on the honor roll after paying the toll of late nights, tired eyes, and hand that kept holding that pen. You see there is pain behind my purpose, to become a nurse and never look at cancer as a curse!This one time in 2021 I had been diagnosed with cancer for a second time. Death had tried to come knocking on my door but I had to say, "Cancer No More"! I was not just gonna survive but thrive... because guess what "Grit don't Quit". I pray that the one thing I do right is one day tell a patient "its alright", because not everyones right!

Right after covid had broken out I had just been diagnosed with Cancer, for a second time and was caught completely off guard. All the strengths I thought I held near and close to my heart had waivered or been challenged, as I was hit with one medical issue after another. On top of that spending 8 months in a sterile hospital room with no interaction of friends, family, or time outside of my room was tough. Your strengths start to feel like they are distant memory of things you once embodied. I had to dig deep off the things that loved ones reminded me I was. If I believe it at the time, was another question? After reviewing my values, I felt it had ultimately initiated my strengths, both going hand and hand with one another. I spent a lot of time reflecting with myself of who I was, good and bad. I believe we should always be aware of who we really are, as there is room for growth. I thought I had no longer processed those qualities and strengths because I wasn’t able to practice those things, as I was in a place of needing to be consoled and not the consoler. Time has been become very precious commodity to me. I looked at my Values as my Mantra, in how I would operate in life. Have you ever heard the phrase “you are a product of your environment?” I truly believe that to be very real today. My values affected my careers choices in more ways than one, it opened and closed doors of opportunities to exercise my loyalty and selflessness. It all started back in 2008, the first time I had cancer. As a woman your self-esteem, confidence, looks, feel totally different prior to treatment vs. post treatment. Being a cosmetologist, I want to serve my fellow cancer patients in a different capacity. That’s where my value of selflessness really kicked into gear. As soon as I started to feel better from treatment, I started to volunteer in the oncology department. I utilized my skills, experience and styled wigs in cut and color. Medications can leave you feeling and looking a lovely pale-yellow grey. I couldn’t except that, so I also was a cosmetics educator and started offering make up classes. All of these was free of charge and something I coordinated myself. The patients smiles and gratitude were the best payment of all. If I’m being transparent becoming more confident in my ability despite of my disability. My values have definitely changed over time. I would have to say maturity and life experiences has influenced the change. Now 13 years later being diagnosed with Cancer, a worst diagnosis and treatment plan without not high success rates and a rigorous bone marrow transplant have been a huge catalyst. When your faced with life threatening experiences and death is knocking on your door just a tad sooner than expected, your perspective, outlook, priorities shift and change. My values are vital to my existence! I know the challenges these patients face mentally, physically, and emotionally can be brutal. I could encourage them now that I’ve been on both sides of the bed and say, "I may not know exactly what you are going through, but I have somewhat of an idea". The once very important ideas, egos, and accomplishments go out the window and you begin reevaluating the “purpose behind my pain”. My purpose is to serve alongside the patients as a nurse, for patients in their own medical challenges, as their pain is now my purpose!

Right after covid had broken out I had just been diagnosed with Cancer, for a second time and was caught completely off guard. All the strengths I thought I held near and close to my heart had waivered or been challenged, as I was hit with one medical issue after another. On top of that spending 8 months in a sterile hospital room with no interaction of friends, family, or time outside of my room was tough. Your strengths start to feel like they are distant memory of things you once embodied. I had to dig deep off the things that loved ones reminded me I was. If I believe it at the time, was another question? After reviewing my values, I felt it had ultimately initiated my strengths, both going hand and hand with one another. I spent a lot of time reflecting with myself of who I was, good and bad. I believe we should always be aware of who we really are, as there is room for growth. I thought I had no longer processed those qualities and strengths because I wasn’t able to practice those things, as I was in a place of needing to be consoled and not the consoler. Time has been become very precious commodity to me. I looked at my Values as my Mantra, in how I would operate in life. Have you ever heard the phrase “you are a product of your environment?” I truly believe that to be very real today. My values affected my careers choices in more ways than one, it opened and closed doors of opportunities to exercise my loyalty and selflessness. It all started back in 2008, the first time I had cancer. As a woman your self-esteem, confidence, looks, feel totally different prior to treatment vs. post treatment. Being a cosmetologist, I want to serve my fellow cancer patients in a different capacity. That’s where my value of selflessness really kicked into gear. As soon as I started to feel better from treatment, I started to volunteer in the oncology department. I utilized my skills, experience and styled wigs in cut and color. Medications can leave you feeling and looking a lovely pale-yellow grey. I couldn’t except that, so I also was a cosmetics educator and started offering make up classes. All of these was free of charge and something I coordinated myself. The patients smiles and gratitude were the best payment of all. If I’m being transparent becoming more confident in my ability despite of my disability. My values have definitely changed over time. I would have to say maturity and life experiences has influenced the change. Now 13 years later being diagnosed with Cancer, a worst diagnosis and treatment plan without not high success rates and a rigorous bone marrow transplant have been a huge catalyst. When your faced with life threatening experiences and death is knocking on your door just a tad sooner than expected, your perspective, outlook, priorities shift and change. My values are vital to my existence! I know the challenges these patients face mentally, physically, and emotionally can be brutal. I could encourage them now that I’ve been on both sides of the bed and say, "I may not know exactly what you are going through, but I have somewhat of an idea". The once very important ideas, egos, and accomplishments go out the window and you begin reevaluating the “purpose behind my pain”. My purpose is to serve alongside the patients as a nurse, for patients in their own medical challenges, as their pain is now my purpose!

Right after covid had broken out I had just been diagnosed with Cancer, for a second time and was caught completely off guard. All the strengths I thought I held near and close to my heart had waivered or been challenged, as I was hit with one medical issue after another. On top of that spending 8 months in a sterile hospital room with no interaction of friends, family, or time outside of my room was tough. Your strengths start to feel like they are distant memory of things you once embodied. I had to dig deep off the things that loved ones reminded me I was. If I believe it at the time, was another question? After reviewing my values, I felt it had ultimately initiated my strengths, both going hand and hand with one another. I spent a lot of time reflecting with myself of who I was, good and bad. I believe we should always be aware of who we really are, as there is room for growth. I thought I had no longer processed those qualities and strengths because I wasn’t able to practice those things, as I was in a place of needing to be consoled and not the consoler. Time has been become very precious commodity to me. I looked at my Values as my Mantra, in how I would operate in life. Have you ever heard the phrase “you are a product of your environment?” I truly believe that to be very real today. My values affected my careers choices in more ways than one, it opened and closed doors of opportunities to exercise my loyalty and selflessness. It all started back in 2008, the first time I had cancer. As a woman your self-esteem, confidence, looks, feel totally different prior to treatment vs. post treatment. Being a cosmetologist, I want to serve my fellow cancer patients in a different capacity. That’s where my value of selflessness really kicked into gear. As soon as I started to feel better from treatment, I started to volunteer in the oncology department. I utilized my skills, experience and styled wigs in cut and color. Medications can leave you feeling and looking a lovely pale-yellow grey. I couldn’t except that, so I also was a cosmetics educator and started offering make up classes. All of these was free of charge and something I coordinated myself. The patients smiles and gratitude were the best payment of all. If I’m being transparent becoming more confident in my ability despite of my disability. My values have definitely changed over time. I would have to say maturity and life experiences has influenced the change. Now 13 years later being diagnosed with Cancer, a worst diagnosis and treatment plan without not high success rates and a rigorous bone marrow transplant have been a huge catalyst. When your faced with life threatening experiences and death is knocking on your door just a tad sooner than expected, your perspective, outlook, priorities shift and change. My values are vital to my existence! I know the challenges these patients face mentally, physically, and emotionally can be brutal. I could encourage them now that I’ve been on both sides of the bed and say, "I may not know exactly what you are going through, but I have somewhat of an idea". The once very important ideas, egos, and accomplishments go out the window and you begin reevaluating the “purpose behind my pain”. My purpose is to serve alongside the patients as a nurse, for patients in their own medical challenges, as their pain is now my purpose!

I feel that I deserve this scholarship because I didn't except all the wrong opinions of others in my pursuit of pursuing higher education. All the nay sayers who thought I was incapable were "wrong" in my ability despite my disability. For all the times I got the "wrong" answer only pushed me that much further in chasing the "right" answer! I had to remind myself grit don't quit! My academic and career goals may face some blows along the way, but I must always remind myself, I must find my way. My goal is graduate on the honor roll after paying the toll of late nights, tired eyes, and hand that kept holding that pen. You see there is pain behind my purpose, to become a nurse and never look at cancer as a curse!This one time in 2021 I had been diagnosed with cancer for a second time. Death had tried to come knocking on my door but I had to say, "Cancer No More"! I was not just gonna survive but thrive... because guess what "Grit don't Quit". I pray that the one thing I do right is one day tell a patient "its alright", because not everyones right!

I had just been diagnosed with Cancer, for a second time and was caught completely off guard. All the strengths I thought I held near and close to my heart had waivered or been challenged, as I was hit with one medical issue after another. On top of that spending 8 months in a sterile hospital room with no interaction of friends, family, or time outside of my room was tough. Your strengths start to feel like they are distant memory of things you once embodied. I had to dig deep off the things that loved ones reminded me I was. If I believed it at the time, was another question? I spent a lot of time reflecting with myself of who I was, good and bad. I thought I had no longer processed those qualities and strengths I once did, as I was in a place of needing to be consoled and not the consoler. Time has been become very precious commodity to me. How I would operate in life? Obstacles affected my choices in more ways than one, it opened and gave me "grit" not to quit! If I’m being transparent becoming more confident in my ability despite of my disability was challenged but when death is knocking on your door just a tad sooner than expected, your perspective, outlook, priorities shift and change. I know the challenges patients face mentally, physically, and emotionally. Now that I’ve been on both sides of the bed, I may not know exactly what you are going through, but I have somewhat of an "idea". I began reevaluating there is “purpose behind my pain”. My purpose is to serve alongside the patients as a nurse, for patients in their own medical challenges, as their pain is now my purpose! Grit don't quit!

It all started back in 2008, the first time I had cancer. As a woman your self-esteem, confidence, looks, feel totally different prior to treatment vs. post treatment. Being a cosmetologist, I want to serve my fellow cancer patients in a different capacity. That’s where my value of selflessness really kicked into gear. As soon as I started to feel better from treatment, I started to volunteer in the oncology department. I utilized my skills, experience and styled wigs in cut and color. Medications can leave you looking a lovely pale-yellow grey.I couldn’t except that, and started offering make up classes. All of these was free of charge and something I coordinated myself. The patients smiles and gratitude were the best payment of all. If I’m being transparent becoming more confident in my ability despite of my disability. I would have to say maturity and life experiences has influenced the ways in wanting to give. Now 13 years later being diagnosed with Cancer again, a worst diagnosis you have to get creative in how to serve others. When your faced with life threatening experiences and death is knocking on your door just a tad sooner than expected, your perspective, outlook, priorities shift and change. My values are vital to my existence! I know the challenges patients face mentally, physically, and emotionally. I could encourage them now that I’ve been on both sides of the bed and say, "I may not know exactly what you are going through, but I have somewhat of an idea". The once very important ideas, egos, and accomplishments go out the window and you begin reevaluating the “purpose behind my pain”. My purpose is to serve alongside the patients as a nurse, for patients in their own medical challenges, as their pain is now my purpose!

Right after covid had broken out I had just been diagnosed with Cancer, for a second time and was caught completely off guard. All the strengths I thought I held near and close to my heart had waivered or been challenged, as I was hit with one medical issue after another. On top of that spending 8 months in a sterile hospital room with no interaction of friends, family, or time outside of my room was tough. Your strengths start to feel like they are distant memory of things you once embodied. I had to dig deep off the things that loved ones reminded me I was. If I believe it at the time, was another question? After reviewing my values, I felt it had ultimately initiated my strengths, both going hand and hand with one another. I spent a lot of time reflecting with myself of who I was, good and bad. I believe we should always be aware of who we really are, as there is room for growth. I thought I had no longer processed those qualities and strengths because I wasn’t able to practice those things, as I was in a place of needing to be consoled and not the consoler. Time has been become very precious commodity to me. I looked at my Values as my Mantra, in how I would operate in life. Have you ever heard the phrase “you are a product of your environment?” I truly believe that to be very real today. My values affected my careers choices in more ways than one, it opened and closed doors of opportunities to exercise my loyalty and selflessness. It all started back in 2008, the first time I had cancer. As a woman your self-esteem, confidence, looks, feel totally different prior to treatment vs. post treatment. Being a cosmetologist, I want to serve my fellow cancer patients in a different capacity. That’s where my value of selflessness really kicked into gear. As soon as I started to feel better from treatment, I started to volunteer in the oncology department. I utilized my skills, experience and styled wigs in cut and color. Medications can leave you feeling and looking a lovely pale-yellow grey. I couldn’t except that, so I also was a cosmetics educator and started offering make up classes. All of these was free of charge and something I coordinated myself. The patients smiles and gratitude were the best payment of all. If I’m being transparent becoming more confident in my ability despite of my disability. My values have definitely changed over time. I would have to say maturity and life experiences has influenced the change. Now 13 years later being diagnosed with Cancer, a worst diagnosis and treatment plan without not high success rates and a rigorous bone marrow transplant have been a huge catalyst. When your faced with life threatening experiences and death is knocking on your door just a tad sooner than expected, your perspective, outlook, priorities shift and change. My values are vital to my existence! I know the challenges these patients face mentally, physically, and emotionally can be brutal. I could encourage them now that I’ve been on both sides of the bed and say, "I may not know exactly what you are going through, but I have somewhat of an idea". The once very important ideas, egos, and accomplishments go out the window and you begin reevaluating the “purpose behind my pain”. My purpose is to serve alongside the patients as a nurse, for patients in their own medical challenges, as their pain is now my purpose!

Right after covid had broken out I had just been diagnosed with Cancer, for a second time and was caught completely off guard. I had just lost my grandparents and two aunts to cancer in the past two years.All the strengths I thought I held near and close to my heart had waivered or been challenged, as I was hit with one medical issue after another. On top of that spending 8 months in a sterile hospital room with no interaction of friends, family, or time outside of my room was tough. Your strengths start to feel like they are distant memory of things you once embodied. I had to dig deep off the things that loved ones reminded me I was. If I believe it at the time, was another question? After reviewing my values, I felt it had ultimately initiated my strengths, both going hand and hand with one another. I spent a lot of time reflecting with myself of who I was, good and bad. I believe we should always be aware of who we really are, as there is room for growth. I thought I had no longer processed those qualities and strengths because I wasn’t able to practice those things, as I was in a place of needing to be consoled and not the consoler. Time has been become very precious commodity to me. I looked at my Values as my Mantra, in how I would operate in life. Have you ever heard the phrase “you are a product of your environment?” I truly believe that to be very real today. My values affected my careers choices in more ways than one, it opened and closed doors of opportunities to exercise my loyalty and selflessness. It all started back in 2008, the first time I had cancer. As a woman your self-esteem, confidence, looks, feel totally different prior to treatment vs. post treatment. Being a cosmetologist, I want to serve my fellow cancer patients in a different capacity. As soon as I started to feel better from treatment, I started to volunteer in the oncology department. I utilized my skills, experience styling wigs. Medications can leave you feeling and looking a lovely pale-yellow grey. I couldn’t except that, so I also was a cosmetics educator and started offering make up classes. All of these was free of charge and something I coordinated myself. The patients smiles and gratitude were the best payment of all. If I’m being transparent becoming more confident in my ability despite of my disability. My values have definitely changed over time. I would have to say maturity and life experiences has influenced the change. Now 13 years later being diagnosed with Cancer, a worst diagnosis and treatment plan without not high success rates and a rigorous bone marrow transplant have been a huge catalyst. When your faced with life threatening experiences and death is knocking on your door just a tad sooner than expected, your perspective, outlook, priorities shift and change. My values are vital to my existence! I know the challenges these patients face mentally, physically, and emotionally can be brutal. I could encourage them now that I’ve been on both sides of the bed and say, "I may not know exactly what you are going through, but I have somewhat of an idea". The once very important ideas, egos, and accomplishments go out the window and you begin reevaluating the “purpose behind my pain”. My purpose is to serve alongside the patients as a nurse, for patients in their own medical challenges, as their pain is now my purpose!

Right after covid had broken out I had just been diagnosed with Cancer, for a second time and was caught completely off guard. All the strengths I thought I held near and close to my heart had waivered or been challenged, as I was hit with one medical issue after another. On top of that spending 8 months in a sterile hospital room with no interaction of friends, family, or time outside of my room was tough. Your strengths start to feel like they are distant memory of things you once embodied. I had to dig deep off the things that loved ones reminded me I was. If I believe it at the time, was another question? After reviewing my values, I felt it had ultimately initiated my strengths, both going hand and hand with one another. I spent a lot of time reflecting with myself of who I was, good and bad. I believe we should always be aware of who we really are, as there is room for growth. I thought I had no longer processed those qualities and strengths because I wasn’t able to practice those things, as I was in a place of needing to be consoled and not the consoler. Time has been become very precious commodity to me. I looked at my Values as my Mantra, in how I would operate in life. Have you ever heard the phrase “you are a product of your environment?” I truly believe that to be very real today. My values affected my careers choices in more ways than one, it opened and closed doors of opportunities to exercise my loyalty and selflessness. It all started back in 2008, the first time I had cancer. As a woman your self-esteem, confidence, looks, feel totally different prior to treatment vs. post treatment. Being a cosmetologist, I want to serve my fellow cancer patients in a different capacity. That’s where my value of selflessness really kicked into gear. As soon as I started to feel better from treatment, I started to volunteer in the oncology department. I utilized my skills, experience and styled wigs in cut and color. Medications can leave you feeling and looking a lovely pale-yellow grey. I couldn’t except that, so I also was a cosmetics educator and started offering make up classes. All of these was free of charge and something I coordinated myself. The patients smiles and gratitude were the best payment of all. If I’m being transparent becoming more confident in my ability despite of my disability. My values have definitely changed over time. I would have to say maturity and life experiences has influenced the change. Now 13 years later being diagnosed with Cancer, a worst diagnosis and treatment plan without not high success rates and a rigorous bone marrow transplant have been a huge catalyst. When your faced with life threatening experiences and death is knocking on your door just a tad sooner than expected, your perspective, outlook, priorities shift and change. My values are vital to my existence! I know the challenges these patients face mentally, physically, and emotionally can be brutal. I could encourage them now that I’ve been on both sides of the bed and say, "I may not know exactly what you are going through, but I have somewhat of an idea". The once very important ideas, egos, and accomplishments go out the window and you begin reevaluating the “purpose behind my pain”. My purpose is to serve alongside the patients as a nurse, for patients in their own medical challenges, as their pain is now my purpose!

“Food is fuel, eat to live, don’t live to eat.” This quote my grandfather Robert lived by and made a choice to give up red meat at the age of 40 and continuously adjusted his diet as the public was updated through the decades of what was considered “healthy”. So, as I reflect “What the Health” is going on in today society is mass confusion, contradiction, and misconception. I say this because media, government, and health care officials for far too long have misinformed the public. For those who are aware aren’t given the platform or attention they deserve to share, inform, and guide due to self-seeking culture we live in today. Money talks…. The reason I mentioned my grandfather was the ultimate model of what we would consider healthy. He lived a very active lifestyle swam every day for an hour and ran for 5-7 miles everyday rain or shine. Now remember I mentioned he would adjust his diet under doctor recommendations, chicken, turkey, or fish along with all the fruits and veggies he could get his hands on. He avoided sugar, salt, and fatty foods. Little did he know the animal products he was still consuming was manifesting cancer that would eventually be his demise. I am myself take health very seriously as I am currently battling for a second time. The fall out of cancer is immense for me it has made me infertile following a transplant. The reason for sharing this is because his life was the parallel what so many of us face today. Why? It stirred so many different emotions, I really don’t even know where to start…. I was upset, hurt, frustrated, and empathetic for all the people, animals, and environment that our food choices affect to infect. I’m upset because the goods that we consume,that are a cacogenics should be labeled with warnings and treated as such. We have commercials on the results of smoking, drinking, and reading slogans like “don’t do drugs”, but nothing saying to our youth, where most of our eating habits are established “meat is mean”. The reason I’m hurt is because we should know “Hot Dog on a Stick” as “Cancer on a Stick”. But to others it’s viewed as a fun convenient eatery. My heart goes out to the communities of where there is a direct affect to the people living in these areas. The lack of empathy of Major distributors and its CEO’s is sickening. Health as become my biggest commodity yet! Its much easier to turn a blind eye than to deal with any issue. My frustration stems from the lack or exposure of nutritional education for medical professionals and public are crucial. I believe it’s something that should be mandated. It starts with us to make a change. To remain informed, get involved with legislative decisions, and choose a plant-based lifestyle. Its very exciting to see more products, eateries, and options available. Unfortunately, we are far from done. Like my family if its not brought to their attention through medical professionals or on the news they will remain the same. We live in a culture of convenience. I believe that we need to get to a point of having the same options that non vegans have when it comes to products, eateries, and medical professionals’ establishments. we all have a carbon footprint and it’s time to ask ourselves where will we plant our feet? We have one planet with one life to live. With that said keep in mind “What the Health” is really going on here?

Right after covid had broken out I had just been diagnosed with Cancer, for a second time and was caught completely off guard. All the strengths I thought I held near and close to my heart had waivered or been challenged, as I was hit with one medical issue after another. On top of that spending 8 months in a sterile hospital room with no interaction of friends, family, or time outside of my room was tough. Your strengths start to feel like they are distant memory of things you once embodied. I had to dig deep off the things that loved ones reminded me I was. If I believe it at the time, was another question? After reviewing my values, I felt it had ultimately initiated my strengths, both going hand and hand with one another. I spent a lot of time reflecting with myself of who I was, good and bad. I believe we should always be aware of who we really are, as there is room for growth. I thought I had no longer processed those qualities and strengths because I wasn’t able to practice those things, as I was in a place of needing to be consoled and not the consoler. Time has been become very precious commodity to me. I looked at my Values as my Mantra, in how I would operate in life. Have you ever heard the phrase “you are a product of your environment?” I truly believe that to be very real today. My values affected my careers choices in more ways than one, it opened and closed doors of opportunities to exercise my loyalty and selflessness. It all started back in 2008, the first time I had cancer. As a woman your self-esteem, confidence, looks, feel totally different prior to treatment vs. post treatment. Being a cosmetologist, I want to serve my fellow cancer patients in a different capacity. That’s where my value of selflessness really kicked into gear. As soon as I started to feel better from treatment, I started to volunteer in the oncology department. I utilized my skills, experience and styled wigs in cut and color. Medications can leave you feeling and looking a lovely pale-yellow grey. I couldn’t except that, so I also was a cosmetics educator and started offering make up classes. All of these was free of charge and something I coordinated myself. The patients smiles and gratitude were the best payment of all. If I’m being transparent becoming more confident in my ability despite of my disability. My values have definitely changed over time. I would have to say maturity and life experiences has influenced the change. Now 13 years later being diagnosed with Cancer, a worst diagnosis and treatment plan without not high success rates and a rigorous bone marrow transplant have been a huge catalyst. When your faced with life threatening experiences and death is knocking on your door just a tad sooner than expected, your perspective, outlook, priorities shift and change. My values are vital to my existence! I know the challenges these patients face mentally, physically, and emotionally can be brutal. I could encourage them now that I’ve been on both sides of the bed and say, "I may not know exactly what you are going through, but I have somewhat of an idea". The once very important ideas, egos, and accomplishments go out the window and you begin reevaluating the “purpose behind my pain”. My purpose is to serve alongside the patients as a nurse, for patients in their own medical challenges, as their pain is now my purpose!

Right after covid had broken out I had just been diagnosed with Cancer, for a second time and was caught completely off guard. All the strengths I thought I held near and close to my heart had waivered or been challenged, as I was hit with one medical issue after another. On top of that spending 8 months in a sterile hospital room with no interaction of friends, family, or time outside of my room was tough. Your strengths start to feel like they are distant memory of things you once embodied. I had to dig deep off the things that loved ones reminded me I was. If I believe it at the time, was another question? After reviewing my values, I felt it had ultimately initiated my strengths, both going hand and hand with one another. I spent a lot of time reflecting with myself of who I was, good and bad. I believe we should always be aware of who we really are, as there is room for growth. I thought I had no longer processed those qualities and strengths because I wasn’t able to practice those things, as I was in a place of needing to be consoled and not the consoler. Time has been become very precious commodity to me. I looked at my Values as my Mantra, in how I would operate in life. Have you ever heard the phrase “you are a product of your environment?” I truly believe that to be very real today. My values affected my careers choices in more ways than one, it opened and closed doors of opportunities to exercise my loyalty and selflessness. It all started back in 2008, the first time I had cancer. As a woman your self-esteem, confidence, looks, feel totally different prior to treatment vs. post treatment. Being a cosmetologist, I want to serve my fellow cancer patients in a different capacity. That’s where my value of selflessness really kicked into gear. As soon as I started to feel better from treatment, I started to volunteer in the oncology department. I utilized my skills, experience and styled wigs in cut and color. Medications can leave you feeling and looking a lovely pale-yellow grey. I couldn’t except that, so I also was a cosmetics educator and started offering make up classes. All of these was free of charge and something I coordinated myself. The patients smiles and gratitude were the best payment of all. If I’m being transparent becoming more confident in my ability despite of my disability. My values have definitely changed over time. I would have to say maturity and life experiences has influenced the change. Now 13 years later being diagnosed with Cancer, a worst diagnosis and treatment plan without not high success rates and a rigorous bone marrow transplant have been a huge catalyst. When your faced with life threatening experiences and death is knocking on your door just a tad sooner than expected, your perspective, outlook, priorities shift and change. My values are vital to my existence! I know the challenges these patients face mentally, physically, and emotionally can be brutal. I could encourage them now that I’ve been on both sides of the bed and say, "I may not know exactly what you are going through, but I have somewhat of an idea". The once very important ideas, egos, and accomplishments go out the window and you begin reevaluating the “purpose behind my pain”. My purpose is to serve alongside oncology patients as a nurse, in their own medical challenges, as their pain is now my purpose!

Right after covid had broken out I had just been diagnosed with Cancer, for a second time and was caught completely off guard. All the strengths I thought I held near and close to my heart had waivered or been challenged, as I was hit with one medical issue after another. On top of that spending 8 months in a sterile hospital room with no interaction of friends, family, or time outside of my room was tough. Your strengths start to feel like they are distant memory of things you once embodied. I had to dig deep off the things that loved ones reminded me I was. If I believe it at the time, was another question? After reviewing my values, I felt it had ultimately initiated my strengths, both going hand and hand with one another. I spent a lot of time reflecting with myself of who I was, good and bad. I believe we should always be aware of who we really are, as there is room for growth. I thought I had no longer processed those qualities and strengths because I wasn’t able to practice those things, as I was in a place of needing to be consoled and not the consoler. Time has been become very precious commodity to me. I looked at my Values as my Mantra, in how I would operate in life. Have you ever heard the phrase “you are a product of your environment?” I truly believe that to be very real today. My values affected my careers choices in more ways than one, it opened and closed doors of opportunities to exercise my loyalty and selflessness. It all started back in 2008, the first time I had cancer. As a woman your self-esteem, confidence, looks, feel totally different prior to treatment vs. post treatment. Being a cosmetologist, I want to serve my fellow cancer patients in a different capacity. That’s where my value of selflessness really kicked into gear. As soon as I started to feel better from treatment, I started to volunteer in the oncology department. I utilized my skills, experience and styled wigs in cut and color. Medications can leave you feeling and looking a lovely pale-yellow grey. I couldn’t except that, so I also was a cosmetics educator and started offering make up classes. All of these was free of charge and something I coordinated myself. The patients smiles and gratitude were the best payment of all. If I’m being transparent becoming more confident in my ability despite of my disability. My values have definitely changed over time. I would have to say maturity and life experiences has influenced the change. Now 13 years later being diagnosed with Cancer, a worst diagnosis and treatment plan without not high success rates and a rigorous bone marrow transplant have been a huge catalyst. When your faced with life threatening experiences and death is knocking on your door just a tad sooner than expected, your perspective, outlook, priorities shift and change. My values are vital to my existence! I know the challenges these patients face mentally, physically, and emotionally can be brutal. I could encourage them now that I’ve been on both sides of the bed and say, "I may not know exactly what you are going through, but I have somewhat of an idea". The once very important ideas, egos, and accomplishments go out the window and you begin reevaluating the “purpose behind my pain”. My purpose is to serve alongside the patients as a nurse, for patients in their own medical challenges, as their pain is now my purpose!

It took me some time to think about my strengths as this year has been quite the challenge for me mentally, physically, and emotionally, during a Global Pandemic. Right after covid had broken out I had just been diagnosed with Cancer for a second time and was caught completely off guard. All the strengths I thought I held near and close to my heart had waivered or been challenged. I was hit with one medical issue after another. On top of that spending 8 months in a sterile hospital room with no interaction of friends and family or time outside of your room, was tough. Your strengths start to feel like they are distant memory of things you embodied. I had to dig deep and try to believe things that loved ones reminded me I was. Did I believe it at the time, was another question? I felt my weaknesses ultimately initiated my strengths, both going hand and hand with one another. Reflecting with myself of who I was good and bad. I thought I had no longer processed those qualities and strengths because I wasn’t able to practice those things, as I was in a place of needing to be consoled and not the consoler. Time has been become very precious commodity to me. I looked at Values as my Mantra, in how you operate in life. Have you ever heard the phrase “you are a product of your environment?” I truly believe that to be very real today. My values affected my careers choices in more ways than one, it opened and closed doors of opportunities to exercise my loyalty and selflessness. It all started back in 2008, the first time I had cancer. As a woman your self-esteem, confidence, looks, feel totally different prior to treatment vs. post treatment. Being a cosmetologist, I want to serve my fellow cancer patients in a different capacity. That’s where my value of selflessness really kicked into gear. As soon as I started to feel better from treatment, I started to volunteer in the oncology department and utilized my skills, experience and styled wigs in cut and color. Medications can leave you feeling and looking a lovely pale-yellow grey. I couldn’t except that, so I also was a cosmetics educator and started offering make up classes. All of these was free of charge and something I coordinated myself. The patients smiles and gratitude were the best payment of all. If I’m being transparent becoming more confident in my ability despite of my disability. My values have definitely changed over time. I would have to say maturity and life experiences has influence the change. Now 13 years later being diagnosed with Cancer, a worst diagnosis and treatment plan without not high success rates have been a huge catalyst. When your faced with life threatening experiences and death is knocking on your door just a tad sooner than expected, your perspective, outlook, priorities shift and change. My values are vital to my existence! I know the challenges these patients face mentally can be brutal. I could encourage them now that I’ve been on both sides of the bed. The once very important ideas, egos, and accomplishments go out the window and you begin reevaluating the “purpose behind your pain”. My purpose is to serve alongside the patient’s as a nurse to for patients in their own medical challenges, as their pain is now my purpose!

SUBMISSION TO THE MISSION It took me some time to think about my strengths as this year has been quite the challenge for me mentally, physically, and emotionally during a Global Pandemic. Right after covid had broken out I had just been diagnosed with Cancer, Hodgkin’s Lymphoma for a second time and was caught completely off guard. All the strengths I thought I held near and close to my heart had waivered or been challenged as I was hit with one medical issue after another. On top of that spending 8 months in a sterile hospital room with no interaction of friends and family or time outside of your room was very tough. Your strengths start to feel like they are distant memory of things you embodied. With that said I had to dig deep off the things that loved ones reminded me I was. Did I believe it at the time, was another question? After reviewing the values, I felt they ultimately initiated my strengths, both going hand and hand with one another. I spent a lot of time reflecting with myself of who I was good and bad. I believe we should always be aware of who we really are, as there is room for improvement and maybe even this time around give myself grace in certain areas. I thought I had no longer processed those qualities and strengths because I wasn’t able to practice those things as I was in a place of needing to be consoled and not the consoler. Time has been become very precious commodity to me. I look at Values as your Mantra in how you operate in life. Have you ever heard the phrase “you are a product of your environment?” I truly believe that to be very real today. My values affected my careers choices in more ways than one, it opened and closed doors of opportunities to exercise my loyalty and selflessness. It all started back in 2008, the first time I had cancer. As a woman your self-esteem, confidence, looks, feel totally different prior to treatment vs. post treatment. Being a cosmetologist, I want to serve my fellow cancer patients in a different capacity. That’s where my value of selflessness really kicked into gear. As soon as I started to feel better from treatment, I started to volunteer in the oncology department and utilized my skills, experience and styled wigs in cut and color. Medications can leave you feeling and looking a lovely pale-yellow grey. I couldn’t except that, so I also was a cosmetics educator and started offering make up classes. All of these was free of charge and something I coordinated myself. The patients smiles and gratitude were the best payment of all. If I’m being transparent becoming more confident in my ability despite of my disability. My values have definitely changed over time. I would have to say maturity and life experiences has influence the change. Now 13 years later being diagnosed with Cancer, a worst diagnosis and treatment plan without not high success rates have been a huge catalyst. When your faced with life threatening experiences and death is knocking on your door just a tad sooner than expected, your perspective, outlook, priorities shift and change. My values are vital to my existence! I know the challenges these patients face not just physically but mentally and emotionally can be brutal. I could encourage them now that I’ve been on both sides of the bed and say "I may not know exactly what you are going through, but I have somewhat of an idea". The once very important ideas, egos, and accomplishments go out the window and you begin reevaluating the “purpose behind your pain”. My purpose is to serve alongside the patient’s as a nurse to for patients in their own medical challenges, as their pain is now my purpose!

SUBMISSION TO THE MISSION It took me some time to think about my strengths as this year has been quite the challenge for me mentally physically, and emotionally during a Global Pandemic. Right after covid had broken out I had just been diagnosed with Cancer, Hodgkin’s Lymphoma for a second time and was caught completely off guard. All the strengths I thought I held near and close to my heart had waivered or been challenged as I was hit with one medical issue after another. On top of that spending 8 months in a sterile hospital room with no interaction of friends and family or time outside of your room was very tough. Your strengths start to feel like they are distant memory of things you embodied. With that said I had to dig deep off the things that loved ones reminded me I was. Did I believe it at the time, was another question? After reviewing the values, I felt they ultimately initiated my strengths, both going hand and hand with one another. I spent a lot of time reflecting with myself of who I was good and bad. I believe we should always be aware of who we really are, as there is room for improvement and maybe even this time around give myself grace in certain areas. I thought I had no longer processed those qualities and strengths because I wasn’t able to practice those things as I was in a place of needed to be consoled and not the consoler. Time has been become very precious commodity to me. I look at Values as your Mantra in how you operate in life. Have you ever heard the phrase “you are a product of your environment?” I truly believe that to be very real today. My values affected my careers choices in more ways than one, it opened and closed doors of opportunities to exercise my loyalty and selflessness. It all started back in 2008, the first time I had cancer. As a woman your self-esteem, confidence, look, and feel totally different prior to treatment vs. post treatment. Being a cosmetologist, I want to serve my fellow cancer patients in a different capacity. That’s where my value of selflessness really kicked into gear. As soon as I started to feel better from treatment, I started to volunteer in the oncology department and utilized my skills, experience and styled wigs in cut and color. Medications can leave you feeling and looking a lovely pale-yellow grey. I couldn’t except that, so I also was a cosmetics educator and started offering make up classes. All of these was free of charge and something I coordinated myself. The patients smiles and gratitude were the best payment of all. If I’m being transparent is becoming more confident in my ability despite of my disability. My values have definitely changed over time. I would have to say maturity and life experiences has influence the change. Now 13 years later being diagnosed with Cancer, a worst diagnosis and treatment plan without not high success rates have been a huge catalyst. When your faced with life threatening experiences and death is knocking on your door just a tad sooner than expected, perspective, outlook, priorities shift and change. My values are vital to my existence! The once very important ideas, egos, and accomplishments go out the window and you begin reevaluating the “purpose behind your pain”. My purpose is to serve alongside the patient’s bedside as a nurse to these young and brave patients in their own medical challenges, as they are our future!

“Food is fuel, eat to live, don’t live to eat.” This quote my grandfather Robert lived by and made a choice to give up red meat at the age of 40 and continuously adjusted his diet as the public was updated through the decades of what was considered “healthy”. So, as I reflect “What the Health” is going on in today society is mass confusion, contradiction, and misconception. I say this because media, government, and health care officials for far too long have misinformed the public. For those who are aware aren’t given the platform or attention they deserve to share, inform, and guide due to self-seeking culture we live in today. Money talks…. The reason I mentioned my grandfather was the ultimate model of what we would consider healthy. He lived a very active lifestyle swam every day for an hour and ran for 5-7 miles everyday rain or shine. Now remember I mentioned he would adjust his diet under doctor recommendations, chicken, turkey, or fish along with all the fruits and veggies he could get his hands on. He avoided sugar, salt, and fatty foods. Little did he know the animal products he was still consuming was manifesting cancer that would eventually be his demise. Why? It stirred so many different emotions, I really don’t even know where to start…. I was upset, hurt, frustrated, and empathetic for all the people, animals, and environment that our food choices affect to infect. I’m upset because the goods that we consume,that are a cacogenics should be labeled with warnings and treated as such. We have commercials on the results of smoking, drinking, and reading slogans like “don’t do drugs”, but nothing saying to our youth, where most of our eating habits are established “meat is mean”. The reason I’m hurt is because we should know “Hot Dog on a Stick” as “Cancer on a Stick”. But to others it’s viewed as a fun convenient eatery. My heart goes out to the communities of where there is a direct affect to the people living in these areas. The lack of empathy of Major distributors and its CEO’s is sickening. Its much easier to turn a blind eye than to deal with any issue. My frustration stems from the lack or exposure of nutritional education for medical professionals and public are crucial. I believe it’s something that should be mandated. It starts with us to make a change. To remain informed, get involved with legislative decisions, and choose a plant-based lifestyle. Its very exciting to see more products, eateries, and options available. Unfortunately, we are far from done. Like my family if its not brought to their attention through medical professionals or on the news they will remain the same. We live in a culture of convenience. I believe that we need to get to a point of having the same options that non vegans have when it comes to products, eateries, and medical professionals’ establishments. we all have a carbon footprint and it’s time to ask ourselves where will we plant our feet? We have one planet with one life to live. With that said keep in mind “What the Health” is really going on here?

In many instances,we either tell ourselves or so desperately want to believe everything happens for a reason.We usually associate that phrase when experiencing something negative or dreadful.The most common question we ask ourselves is“Why?”It is usually followed up with“How will this affect and alter my life?”Little did I know my life-altering event would be cancer.I was 21 years old,a milestone for youth.That meant I could walk into any place without issues or limitations.I had my own place,climbing the ladder in my field of work.It was Nov.08 when the rug was pulled right from under my feet,I suddenly found myself flat on my face.For the past couple of weeks,I had been in&out of hospitals and seen 9 different specialists claiming I was battling something terminal but no one knew what.Fast forward:I had finally received the answer I had anticipated but also very much dreaded.It was Dec.,and I had just closed out Nov. having an attitude of gratitude.It was a time of gift giving and celebrating new life because a King was born and his name was Jesus.The gingerbread&pine aromas,the décor that filled my home read “joyful,”“merry,”and “blessed.”It was a cold crisp winter day when my phone rang.The caller ID read UCLA,the doctor requested that I come in immediately to talk about my results further.Shortly after hanging up I experienced a rollercoaster of emotions in a matter of seconds.The weight of the world was suddenly on my shoulders,crushing every bone in my body,paralyzing me.Two days later I found myself in a cold sterile room being given my prognosis.As the doctor explained what Hodgkin’s lymphoma was,it was like I was hearing a foreign language.I heard the wind whistle in between the sky-rise buildings,I saw tree branches hit the office window,and I felt time stand still.I heard the doctor utter these muffled words:“Christine you have stage IV cancer.”My lips quivered,eyes filled like an ocean,I felt like my heart had plummeted and anchored to the bottom of my stomach.I was advised i'd start treatment right before Christmas.Little did I know that cancer would be a gift that I would never want to return.After what seemed like a lifetime later,I was laying in a leather recliner waiting for a nurse.My palms were sweating,and my legs were shaking uncontrollably.My IV connected to the PICC lines that were protruding out of my arms made me look like I was part robot.As the meds hit me immediately,I felt as if I was being stung by a 1000 bees at once,I experienced a discomfort that was foreign.Feeling sick was an understatement,as I was white as a ghost.I had been engulfed in fear of what was to come.Would the pain get worse?Would the treatment be successful?And what was chemo going to do to me physically?Even though I was in a chamois-like state,I noticed my hair becoming a new accessory that followed me everywhere I went.Accepting that cancer was a new reality,I chose to change my mindset.Cancer was present in this season of my life,I wondered how I would equip myself in this storm.I was no longer going to let cancer infect me but affect me for good.Instead of looking at life as a naïve young girl and thinking about what life had to offer me,I challenged myself in what I could offer life.What I was going to do with my time was crucial.The news that took me by surprise was the new headline in my story.That headline read“There is Purpose behind my Pain.”Purpose to never take life for granted and to always rise to the occasion of perseverance.Cancer gifted me in ways nothing else could;it gave life a whole new meaning.

In many instances,we either tell ourselves or so desperately want to believe everything happens for a reason.We usually associate that phrase when experiencing something negative or dreadful.The most common question we ask ourselves is“Why?”It is usually followed up with“How will this affect and alter my life?”Little did I know my life-altering event would be cancer.I was 21 years old,a milestone for youth.That meant I could walk into any place without issues or limitations.I had my own place,climbing the ladder in my field of work.It was Nov.08 when the rug was pulled right from under my feet,I suddenly found myself flat on my face.For the past couple of weeks,I had been in&out of hospitals and seen 9 different specialists claiming I was battling something terminal but no one knew what.Fast forward:I had finally received the answer I had anticipated but also very much dreaded.It was Dec.,and I had just closed out Nov. having an attitude of gratitude.It was a time of gift giving and celebrating new life because a King was born and his name was Jesus.The gingerbread&pine aromas,the décor that filled my home read “joyful,”“merry,”and “blessed.”It was a cold crisp winter day when my phone rang.The caller ID read UCLA,the doctor requested that I come in immediately to talk about my results further.Shortly after hanging up I experienced a rollercoaster of emotions in a matter of seconds.The weight of the world was suddenly on my shoulders,crushing every bone in my body,paralyzing me.Two days later I found myself in a cold sterile room being given my prognosis.As the doctor explained what Hodgkin’s lymphoma was,it was like I was hearing a foreign language.I heard the wind whistle in between the sky-rise buildings,I saw tree branches hit the office window,and I felt time stand still.I heard the doctor utter these muffled words:“Christine you have stage IV cancer.”My lips quivered,eyes filled like an ocean,I felt like my heart had plummeted and anchored to the bottom of my stomach.I was advised i'd start treatment right before Christmas.Little did I know that cancer would be a gift that I would never want to return.After what seemed like a lifetime later,I was laying in a leather recliner waiting for a nurse.My palms were sweating,and my legs were shaking uncontrollably.My IV connected to the PICC lines that were protruding out of my arms made me look like I was part robot.As the meds hit me immediately,I felt as if I was being stung by a 1000 bees at once,I experienced a discomfort that was foreign.Feeling sick was an understatement,as I was white as a ghost.I had been engulfed in fear of what was to come.Would the pain get worse?Would the treatment be successful?And what was chemo going to do to me physically?Even though I was in a chamois-like state,I noticed my hair becoming a new accessory that followed me everywhere I went.Accepting that cancer was a new reality,I chose to change my mindset.Cancer was present in this season of my life,I wondered how I would equip myself in this storm.I was no longer going to let cancer infect me but affect me for good.Instead of looking at life as a naïve young girl and thinking about what life had to offer me,I challenged myself in what I could offer life.What I was going to do with my time was crucial.The news that took me by surprise was the new headline in my story.That headline read“There is Purpose behind my Pain.”Purpose to never take life for granted and to always rise to the occasion of perseverance.Cancer gifted me in ways nothing else could;it gave life a whole new meaning.

In many instances,we either tell ourselves or so desperately want to believe everything happens for a reason.We usually associate that phrase when experiencing something negative or dreadful.The most common question we ask ourselves is“Why?”It is usually followed up with“How will this affect and alter my life?”Little did I know my life-altering event would be cancer.I was 21 years old,a milestone for youth.That meant I could walk into any place without issues or limitations.I had my own place,climbing the ladder in my field of work.It was Nov.08 when the rug was pulled right from under my feet,I suddenly found myself flat on my face.For the past couple of weeks,I had been in&out of hospitals and seen 9 different specialists claiming I was battling something terminal but no one knew what.Fast forward:I had finally received the answer I had anticipated but also very much dreaded.It was Dec.,and I had just closed out Nov. having an attitude of gratitude.It was a time of gift giving and celebrating new life because a King was born and his name was Jesus.The gingerbread&pine aromas,the décor that filled my home read “joyful,”“merry,”and “blessed.”It was a cold crisp winter day when my phone rang.The caller ID read UCLA,the doctor requested that I come in immediately to talk about my results further.Shortly after hanging up I experienced a rollercoaster of emotions in a matter of seconds.The weight of the world was suddenly on my shoulders,crushing every bone in my body,paralyzing me.Two days later I found myself in a cold sterile room being given my prognosis.As the doctor explained what Hodgkin’s lymphoma was,it was like I was hearing a foreign language.I heard the wind whistle in between the sky-rise buildings,I saw tree branches hit the office window,and I felt time stand still.I heard the doctor utter these muffled words:“Christine you have stage IV cancer.”My lips quivered,eyes filled like an ocean,I felt like my heart had plummeted and anchored to the bottom of my stomach.I was advised i'd start treatment right before Christmas.Little did I know that cancer would be a gift that I would never want to return.After what seemed like a lifetime later,I was laying in a leather recliner waiting for a nurse.My palms were sweating,and my legs were shaking uncontrollably.My IV connected to the PICC lines that were protruding out of my arms made me look like I was part robot.As the meds hit me immediately,I felt as if I was being stung by a 1000 bees at once,I experienced a discomfort that was foreign.Feeling sick was an understatement,as I was white as a ghost.I had been engulfed in fear of what was to come.Would the pain get worse?Would the treatment be successful?And what was chemo going to do to me physically?Even though I was in a chamois-like state,I noticed my hair becoming a new accessory that followed me everywhere I went.Accepting that cancer was a new reality,I chose to change my mindset.Cancer was present in this season of my life,I wondered how I would equip myself in this storm.I was no longer going to let cancer infect me but affect me for good.Instead of looking at life as a naïve young girl and thinking about what life had to offer me,I challenged myself in what I could offer life.What I was going to do with my time was crucial.The news that took me by surprise was the new headline in my story.That headline read“There is Purpose behind my Pain.”Purpose to never take life for granted and to always rise to the occasion of perseverance.Cancer gifted me in ways nothing else could;it gave life a whole new meaning.

“Food is fuel, eat to live,don’t live to eat.” This quote my grandfather Robert lived by and made a choice to give up red meat at the age of 40 and continuously adjusted his diet as the public was updated through the decades of what was considered “healthy”.So, as I reflect “What the Health” is going on in today society is mass confusion, contradiction, and misconception.I say this because media, government, and health care officials for far too long have misinformed the public. For those who are aware aren’t given the platform or attention they deserve to share, inform, and guide due to self-seeking culture we live in today.Money talks.... The reason I mentioned my grandfather was the ultimate model of what we would consider healthy.He lived a very active lifestyle swam every day for an hr and ran for 5-7 miles everyday rain or shine.Now remember I mentioned he would adjust his diet under doctor recommendations, chicken, turkey, or fish along with all the fruits and veggies he could get his hands on. He avoided sugar, salt, and fatty foods. Little did he know the animal products he was still consuming was manifesting cancer that would eventually be his demise.The reason for sharing this is because his life was the parallel to the documentary. I have personally seen this documentary more times than I can count.After watching it yesterday my eyes filled like an ocean and tears began to flow.Why? It stirred so many different emotions, I really don’t even know where to start.... I was upset, hurt, frustrated, and empathetic for all the people, animals, and environment that our food choices affect to infect.I’m upset because the goods that we consume,that are a cacogenics should be labeled with warnings and treated as such.We have commercials on the results of smoking, drinking, and reading slogans like “don’t do drugs”, but nothing saying to our youth, where most of our eating habits are established “meat is mean”. The reason I’m hurt is because we should know “Hot Dog on a Stick” as “Cancer on a Stick”. But to others it’s viewed as a fun convenient eatery.My heart goes out to the communities of where there is a direct affect to the people living in these areas. The lack of empathy of Major distributors and its CEO’s is sickening. Like in the documentary Kip makes it point to shed light on these people’s obvious knowledge of how unhealthy animal products are and the utter denial goes hand in hand. Its much easier to turn a blind eye than to deal with any issue.My frustration stems from the lack or exposure of nutritional education for medical professionals and public are crucial. I believe it’s something that should be mandated. It starts with us to make a change. To remain informed, get involved with legislative decisions, and choose a plant-based lifestyle. Its very exciting to see more products, eateries, and options available. Unfortunately, we are far from done. Like my family if its not brought to their attention through medical professionals or on the news they will remain the same. We live in a culture of convenience. I believe that we need to get to a point of having the same options that non vegans have when it comes to products, eateries, and medical professionals’ establishments. we all have a carbon footprint and it’s time to ask ourselves where will we plant our feet? We have one planet with one life to live. With that said keep in mind “What the Health is really going on?”

In many instances, we either tell ourselves or so desperately want to believe everything happens for a reason.We usually associate that phrase when experiencing something negative or dreadful.The most common question we ask ourselves is“Why?”It is usually followed up with “How will this affect and alter my life?” Little did I know my life altering event would be cancer.I was 21yro, a milestone for youth.That meant I could walk into any place without issues or limitations.I had my own place,climbing the ladder in my field of work.It was Nov 08 when the rug was pulled right from under my feet, I suddenly found myself flat on my face. For the past couple of weeks,I had been in& out of hospitals and had seen 9 different specialists claiming I was battling something terminal but noone knew what.Fast forward:I had finally received the answer I had anticipated but also very much dreaded. It was Dec, and I had just closed out Nov having an attitude of gratitude.Now it was a time of gift giving and celebrating new life because a King was born and his name was Jesus.The gingerbread and pine aromas and the décor that filled my home read “joyful,” “merry,”and “blessed.”It was a cold crisp winter day when my phone rang.The caller ID read UCLA,the doctor requested that I come in immediately to talk about my results further.Shortly after hanging up I experienced a rollercoaster of emotions in a matter of seconds.The weight of the world was suddenly on my shoulders, crushing every bone in my body, paralyzing me.Two days later I found myself in a cold sterile room being given my prognosis.As the doctor explained what Hodgkin’s lymphoma was,it was like I was hearing a foreign language.I heard the wind whistle in between the sky-rise buildings,I saw tree branches hit the office window,and I felt time stand still.I heard the doctor utter these muffled words: “Christine you have stage IV cancer.”My lips quivered,eyes filled like an ocean,and I felt like my heart had plummeted and anchored to the bottom of my stomach.I was advised that I would start treatment right before Christmas.Little did I know that cancer would be a gift that I would never want to return.After what seemed like a lifetime later,I was laying in a leather recliner waiting for a nurse.My palms were sweating,and my legs were shaking uncontrollably.My IV connected to the PICC lines that were protruding out of my arms made me look like I was part robot.As the meds hit me immediately,I felt as if I was being stung by a thousand bees at once,and I experienced a discomfort that was foreign. Feeling sick was an understatement,as I was white as a ghost.I had been engulfed in fear of what was to come. Would the pain get worse?Would the treatment be successful?And what was chemo going to do to me physically?Even though I was in a chamois-like state,I noticed my hair becoming a new accessory that followed everywhere I went.Accepting that cancer was a new reality,I chose to change my mindset.Cancer was present in this season of my life,I wondered how I would equip myself in this storm.I was no longer going to let cancer infect me but affect me for good.Instead of looking at life as a naïve young girl and thinking about what life had to offer me, I challenged myself in what I could offer life. What I was going to do with my time was crucial. The news that took me by surprise was the new headline in my story. That headline read “There is Purpose behind my Pain.”