Becoming a medical doctor, a researcher, is not only a professional decision; it’s personal, very personal. My entire life I have struggled with genetic conditions. One is fibular hemimelia, a deformity of the lower limbs. I have a classic textbook case that is mostly on my right side. The other issue is an exceedingly rare condition called Congenital Sucrase Isomaltase Deficiency. My body does not produce enzymes vital to break down sugars and starches. Unfortunately, no providers in my rural area knew the warning signs; it wasn’t even on their radar. I was, however, tested for nearly every possibility: allergies, infections, even Celiac Disease. Nothing surfaced. I was medically fine according to my local doctors. The doctors heard hoofbeats and thought horses. At that point, I knew I had to educate myself, and become my own expert and advocate. So I began to research and learn. I went without treatment for years with the presumption of “being an anxious woman”, where no one listened to my pain. I fought for myself, and finally, I was sent to a gastroenterologist in Denver, Colorado: Dr. Logan Gibson. He listened to me and heard zebras. I had it drilled into my head to think of horses so much that I didn’t believe him at first, even though I knew he was right. I didn’t want to get my hopes up. I was sent in for a colonoscopy. I will never forget when he looked me in the eyes and told me he knew what was wrong. As we talked about treatment, he explained that any care doesn’t help much and is incredibly expensive. I knew at that moment that genetics was my calling! I am going to fix this: for the kids who have to bring a “special lunch” to school, for the adults who have to excuse themselves from a company dinner, for those who have gone without, for those who must go out of their way to a metropolis for quality provisions, and for me. I have always been interested in the microscopic parts of the world. During the pandemic, I discovered the world of microbiology. I became obsessed. I immersed myself in everything I could. In my deep dive, I found a YouTuber, named Roanoke Gaming. He is a former microbiologist who takes disease and mutation concepts from video games and explains how they would occur if they were real. This is how I discovered CRISPR, a way to manipulate DNA at our own will. I was infatuated by this concept, I knew this was how I could fix myself and others like me. I knew I could never grow my leg back, but what if we could catch fibular hemimelia early enough in the womb to fix the gene that causes the mutation? I researched further and found another YouTuber, The Thought Emporium. He is a “biohacker” and found a way to cure himself of his lactose intolerance. He used an adeno-associated virus to transfer the correct genetic code into his gut. This was the perfect answer to the other problem. All I had to do was follow that literature and change the genetic code that was used. I was set. I have cemented on who and what I am going to be. I am going to be Danara N. Abshire. The person who changed the genetic medicine world.

Becoming a medical doctor, a researcher, is not only a professional decision; it’s personal, very personal. My entire life I have struggled with genetic conditions. One is fibular hemimelia, a deformity of the lower limbs. I have a classic textbook case that is mostly on my right side. The other issue is an exceedingly rare condition called Congenital Sucrase Isomaltase Deficiency. My body does not produce enzymes vital to break down sugars and starches. Unfortunately, no providers in my rural area knew the warning signs; it wasn’t even on their radar. I was, however, tested for nearly every possibility: allergies, infections, even Celiac Disease. Nothing surfaced. I was medically fine according to my local doctors. The doctors heard hoofbeats and thought horses. At that point, I knew I had to educate myself and become my expert and advocate. So I began to research and learn. I went without treatment for years with the presumption of “being an anxious woman”, where no one listened to my pain. I fought for myself, and finally, I was sent to a gastroenterologist in Denver, Colorado: Dr. Logan Gibson. He listened to me and heard zebras. I had it drilled into my head to think of horses so much that I didn’t believe him at first, even though I knew he was right. I didn’t want to get my hopes up. I was sent in for a colonoscopy. I will never forget when he looked me in the eyes and told me he knew what was wrong. As we talked about treatment, he explained that any care doesn’t do much and is incredibly expensive. I knew at that moment that genetics was my calling! I am going to fix this: for the kids who have to bring a “special lunch” to school, for the adults who have to excuse themselves from a company dinner, for those who have gone without, for those who must go out of their way to a metropolis for quality provisions, and for me. I have always been interested in the microscopic parts of the world. During the pandemic, I discovered the world of microbiology. I became obsessed. I immersed myself in everything I could. In my deep dive, I found a YouTuber, named Roanoke Gaming. He is a former microbiologist who takes disease and mutation concepts from video games and explains how they would occur if they were real. This is how I discovered CRISPR, a way to manipulate DNA at our own will. I was infatuated by this concept, I knew this was how I could fix myself and others like me. I knew I could never grow my leg back, but what if we could catch fibular hemimelia early enough in the womb to fix the gene that causes the mutation? I researched further and found another YouTuber, The Thought Emporium. A “biohacker” who found a way to cure himself of his lactose intolerance. He used an adeno-associated virus to transfer the correct genetic code into his gut. This was the perfect answer to the other problem. All I had to do was follow that literature and change the genetic code that was used. I was set. I have finally found a path, but it is expensive and thorough. My goals will be unachievable without financial assistance. I know this is what I am meant to do, and I will fight with every fiber of my being to achieve it. I have cemented on who and what I am going to be. I am going to be Danara N. Abshire. The person who changed the genetic medicine world.

Becoming a medical doctor, a researcher, is not only a professional decision; it’s personal, very personal. My entire life I have struggled with genetic conditions. One is fibular hemimelia, a deformity of the lower limbs. I have a classic textbook case that is mostly on my right side. The other issue is an exceedingly rare condition called Congenital Sucrase Isomaltase Deficiency. My body does not produce enzymes vital to break down sugars and starches. Unfortunately, no providers in my rural area knew the warning signs; it wasn’t even on their radar. I was, however, tested for nearly every possibility: allergies, infections, even Celiac Disease. Nothing surfaced. I was medically fine according to my local doctors. The doctors heard hoofbeats and thought horses. At that point, I knew I had to educate myself and become my expert and advocate. So I began to research and learn. I went without treatment for years with the presumption of “being an anxious woman”, where no one listened to my pain. I fought for myself, and finally, I was sent to a gastroenterologist in Denver, Colorado: Dr. Logan Gibson. He listened to me and heard zebras. I had it drilled into my head to think of horses so much that I didn’t believe him at first, even though I knew he was right. I didn’t want to get my hopes up. I was sent in for a colonoscopy. I will never forget when he looked me in the eyes and told me he knew what was wrong. As we talked about treatment, he explained that any care doesn’t do much and is incredibly expensive. I knew at that moment that genetics was my calling! I am going to fix this: for the kids who have to bring a “special lunch” to school, for the adults who have to excuse themselves from a company dinner, for those who have gone without, for those who must go out of their way to a metropolis for quality provisions, and for me. I have always been interested in the microscopic parts of the world. During the pandemic, I discovered the world of microbiology. I became obsessed. I immersed myself in everything I could. In my deep dive, I found a YouTuber, named Roanoke Gaming. He is a former microbiologist who takes disease and mutation concepts from video games and explains how they would occur if they were real. This is how I discovered CRISPR, a way to manipulate DNA at our own will. I was infatuated by this concept, I knew this was how I could fix myself and others like me. I knew I could never grow my leg back, but what if we could catch fibular hemimelia early enough in the womb to fix the gene that causes the mutation? I researched further and found another YouTuber, The Thought Emporium. A “biohacker” who found a way to cure himself of his lactose intolerance. He used an adeno-associated virus to transfer the correct genetic code into his gut. This was the perfect answer to the other problem. All I had to do was follow that literature and change the genetic code that was used. I was set. I have finally found a path, but it is expensive and thorough. My goals will be unachievable without financial assistance. I know this is what I am meant to do, and I will fight with every fiber of my being to achieve it. I have cemented on who and what I am going to be. I am going to be Danara N. Abshire. The person who changed the genetic medicine world.

Becoming a medical doctor, a researcher, is not only a professional decision; it’s personal, very personal. My entire life I have struggled with genetic conditions. One is fibular hemimelia, a deformity of the lower limbs. I have a classic textbook case that is mostly on my right side. The other issue is an exceedingly rare condition called Congenital Sucrase Isomaltase Deficiency. My body does not produce enzymes vital to break down sugars and starches. Unfortunately, no providers in my rural area knew the warning signs; it wasn’t even on their radar. I was, however, tested for nearly every possibility: allergies, infections, even Celiac Disease. Nothing surfaced. I was medically fine according to my local doctors. The doctors heard hoofbeats and thought horses. At that point, I knew I had to educate myself and become my expert and advocate. So I began to research and learn. I went without treatment for years with the presumption of “being an anxious woman”, where no one listened to my pain. I fought for myself, and finally, I was sent to a gastroenterologist in Denver, Colorado: Dr. Logan Gibson. He listened to me and heard zebras. I had it drilled into my head to think of horses so much that I didn’t believe him at first, even though I knew he was right. I didn’t want to get my hopes up. I was sent in for a colonoscopy. I will never forget when he looked me in the eyes and told me he knew what was wrong. As we talked about treatment, he explained that any care doesn’t do much and is incredibly expensive. I knew at that moment that genetics was my calling! I am going to fix this: for the kids who have to bring a “special lunch” to school, for the adults who have to excuse themselves from a company dinner, for those who have gone without, for those who must go out of their way to a metropolis for quality provisions, and for me. I have always been interested in the microscopic parts of the world. During the pandemic, I discovered the world of microbiology. I became obsessed. I immersed myself in everything I could. In my deep dive, I found a YouTuber, named Roanoke Gaming. He is a former microbiologist who takes disease and mutation concepts from video games and explains how they would occur if they were real. This is how I discovered CRISPR, a way to manipulate DNA at our own will. I was infatuated by this concept, I knew this was how I could fix myself and others like me. I knew I could never grow my leg back, but what if we could catch fibular hemimelia early enough in the womb to fix the gene that causes the mutation? I researched further and found another YouTuber, The Thought Emporium. A “biohacker” who found a way to cure himself of his lactose intolerance. He used an adeno-associated virus to transfer the correct genetic code into his gut. This was the perfect answer to the other problem. All I had to do was follow that literature and change the genetic code that was used. I was set. I have finally found a path, but it is expensive and thorough. My goals will be unachievable without financial assistance. I know this is what I am meant to do, and I will fight with every fiber of my being to achieve it. I have cemented on who and what I am going to be. I am going to be Danara N. Abshire. The person who changed the genetic medicine world.

Becoming a medical doctor, a researcher, is not only a professional decision; it’s personal, very personal. My entire life I have struggled with genetic conditions. One is fibular hemimelia, a deformity of the lower limbs. I have a classic textbook case that is mostly on my right side. The other issue is an exceedingly rare condition called Congenital Sucrase Isomaltase Deficiency. My body does not produce enzymes vital to break down sugars and starches. Unfortunately, no providers in my rural area knew the warning signs; it wasn’t even on their radar. I was, however, tested for nearly every possibility: allergies, infections, even Celiac Disease. Nothing surfaced. I was medically fine according to my local doctors. The doctors heard hoofbeats and thought horses. At that point, I knew I had to educate myself and become my expert and advocate. So I began to research and learn. I went without treatment for years with the presumption of “being an anxious woman”, where no one listened to my pain. I fought for myself, and finally, I was sent to a gastroenterologist in Denver, Colorado: Dr. Logan Gibson. He listened to me and heard zebras. I had it drilled into my head to think of horses so much that I didn’t believe him at first, even though I knew he was right. I didn’t want to get my hopes up. I was sent in for a colonoscopy. I will never forget when he looked me in the eyes and told me he knew what was wrong. As we talked about treatment, he explained that any care doesn’t do much and is incredibly expensive. I knew at that moment that genetics was my calling! I am going to fix this: for the kids who have to bring a “special lunch” to school, for the adults who have to excuse themselves from a company dinner, for those who have gone without, for those who must go out of their way to a metropolis for quality provisions, and for me. I have always been interested in the microscopic parts of the world. During the pandemic, I discovered the world of microbiology. I became obsessed. I immersed myself in everything I could. In my deep dive, I found a YouTuber, named Roanoke Gaming. He is a former microbiologist who takes disease and mutation concepts from video games and explains how they would occur if they were real. This is how I discovered CRISPR, a way to manipulate DNA at our own will. I was infatuated by this concept, I knew this was how I could fix myself and others like me. I knew I could never grow my leg back, but what if we could catch fibular hemimelia early enough in the womb to fix the gene that causes the mutation? I researched further and found another YouTuber, The Thought Emporium. A “biohacker” who found a way to cure himself of his lactose intolerance. He used an adeno-associated virus to transfer the correct genetic code into his gut. This was the perfect answer to the other problem. All I had to do was follow that literature and change the genetic code that was used. I was set. I have finally found a path, but it is expensive and thorough. My goals will be unachievable without financial assistance. I know this is what I am meant to do, and I will fight with every fiber of my being to achieve it. I have cemented on who and what I am going to be. I am going to be Danara N. Abshire. The person who changed the genetic medicine world.

Becoming a medical doctor, a researcher, is not only a professional decision; it’s personal, very personal. My entire life I have struggled with genetic conditions. One is fibular hemimelia, a deformity of the lower limbs. I have a classic textbook case that is mostly on my right side. The other issue is an exceedingly rare condition called Congenital Sucrase Isomaltase Deficiency. My body does not produce enzymes vital to break down sugars and starches. Unfortunately, no providers in my rural area knew the warning signs; it wasn’t even on their radar. I was, however, tested for nearly every possibility: allergies, infections, even Celiac Disease. Nothing surfaced. I was medically fine according to my local doctors. The doctors heard hoofbeats and thought horses. At that point, I knew I had to educate myself and become my expert and advocate. So I began to research and learn. I went without treatment for years with the presumption of “being an anxious woman”, where no one listened to my pain. I fought for myself, and finally, I was sent to a gastroenterologist in Denver, Colorado: Dr. Logan Gibson. He listened to me and heard zebras. I had it drilled into my head to think of horses so much that I didn’t believe him at first, even though I knew he was right. I didn’t want to get my hopes up. I was sent in for a colonoscopy. I will never forget when he looked me in the eyes and told me he knew what was wrong. As we talked about treatment, he explained that any care doesn’t do much and is incredibly expensive. I knew at that moment that genetics was my calling! I am going to fix this: for the kids who have to bring a “special lunch” to school, for the adults who have to excuse themselves from a company dinner, for those who have gone without, for those who must go out of their way to a metropolis for quality provisions, and for me. I have always been interested in the microscopic parts of the world. During the pandemic, I discovered the world of microbiology. I became obsessed. I immersed myself in everything I could. In my deep dive, I found a YouTuber, named Roanoke Gaming. He is a former microbiologist who takes disease and mutation concepts from video games and explains how they would occur if they were real. This is how I discovered CRISPR, a way to manipulate DNA at our own will. I was infatuated by this concept, I knew this was how I could fix myself and others like me. I knew I could never grow my leg back, but what if we could catch fibular hemimelia early enough in the womb to fix the gene that causes the mutation? I researched further and found another YouTuber, The Thought Emporium. A “biohacker” who found a way to cure himself of his lactose intolerance. He used an adeno-associated virus to transfer the correct genetic code into his gut. This was the perfect answer to the other problem. All I had to do was follow that literature and change the genetic code that was used. I was set. I have finally found a path, but it is expensive and thorough. My goals will be unachievable without financial assistance. I know this is what I am meant to do, and I will fight with every fiber of my being to achieve it. I have cemented on who and what I am going to be. I am going to be Danara N. Abshire. The person who changed the genetic medicine world.

Becoming a medical doctor, a researcher, is not only a professional decision; it’s personal, very personal. My entire life I have struggled with genetic conditions. One is fibular hemimelia, a deformity of the lower limbs. I have a classic textbook case that is mostly on my right side. The other issue is an exceedingly rare condition called Congenital Sucrase Isomaltase Deficiency. My body does not produce enzymes vital to break down sugars and starches. Unfortunately, no providers in my rural area knew the warning signs; it wasn’t even on their radar. I was, however, tested for nearly every possibility: allergies, infections, even Celiac Disease. Nothing surfaced. I was medically fine according to my local doctors. The doctors heard hoofbeats and thought horses. At that point, I knew I had to educate myself and become my expert and advocate. So I began to research and learn. I went without treatment for years with the presumption of “being an anxious woman”, where no one listened to my pain. I fought for myself, and finally, I was sent to a gastroenterologist in Denver, Colorado: Dr. Logan Gibson. He listened to me and heard zebras. I had it drilled into my head to think of horses so much that I didn’t believe him at first, even though I knew he was right. I didn’t want to get my hopes up. I was sent in for a colonoscopy. I will never forget when he looked me in the eyes and told me he knew what was wrong. As we talked about treatment, he explained that any care doesn’t do much and is incredibly expensive. I knew at that moment that genetics was my calling! I am going to fix this: for the kids who have to bring a “special lunch” to school, for the adults who have to excuse themselves from a company dinner, for those who have gone without, for those who must go out of their way to a metropolis for quality provisions, and for me. I have always been interested in the microscopic parts of the world. During the pandemic, I discovered the world of microbiology. I became obsessed. I immersed myself in everything I could. In my deep dive, I found a YouTuber, named Roanoke Gaming. He is a former microbiologist who takes disease and mutation concepts from video games and explains how they would occur if they were real. This is how I discovered CRISPR, a way to manipulate DNA at our own will. I was infatuated by this concept, I knew this was how I could fix myself and others like me. I knew I could never grow my leg back, but what if we could catch fibular hemimelia early enough in the womb to fix the gene that causes the mutation? I researched further and found another YouTuber, The Thought Emporium. A “biohacker” who found a way to cure himself of his lactose intolerance. He used an adeno-associated virus to transfer the correct genetic code into his gut. This was the perfect answer to the other problem. All I had to do was follow that literature and change the genetic code that was used. I was set. I have finally found a path, but it is expensive and thorough. My goals will be unachievable without financial assistance. I know this is what I am meant to do, and I will fight with every fiber of my being to achieve it. I have cemented on who and what I am going to be. I am going to be Danara N. Abshire. The person who changed the genetic medicine world.

Becoming a medical doctor, a researcher, is not only a professional decision; it’s personal, very personal. My entire life I have struggled with genetic conditions. One is fibular hemimelia, a deformity of the lower limbs. I have a classic textbook case that is mostly on my right side. The other issue is an exceedingly rare condition called Congenital Sucrase Isomaltase Deficiency. My body does not produce enzymes vital to break down sugars and starches. Unfortunately, no providers in my rural area knew the warning signs; it wasn’t even on their radar. I was, however, tested for nearly every possibility: allergies, infections, even Celiac Disease. Nothing surfaced. I was medically fine according to my local doctors. The doctors heard hoofbeats and thought horses. At that point, I knew I had to educate myself and become my expert and advocate. So I began to research and learn. I went without treatment for years with the presumption of “being an anxious woman”, where no one listened to my pain. I fought for myself, and finally, I was sent to a gastroenterologist in Denver, Colorado: Dr. Logan Gibson. He listened to me and heard zebras. I had it drilled into my head to think of horses so much that I didn’t believe him at first, even though I knew he was right. I didn’t want to get my hopes up. I was sent in for a colonoscopy. I will never forget when he looked me in the eyes and told me he knew what was wrong. As we talked about treatment, he explained that any care doesn’t do much and is incredibly expensive. I knew at that moment that genetics was my calling! I am going to fix this: for the kids who have to bring a “special lunch” to school, for the adults who have to excuse themselves from a company dinner, for those who have gone without, for those who must go out of their way to a metropolis for quality provisions, and for me. I have always been interested in the microscopic parts of the world. During the pandemic, I discovered the world of microbiology. I became obsessed. I immersed myself in everything I could. In my deep dive, I found a YouTuber, named Roanoke Gaming. He is a former microbiologist who takes disease and mutation concepts from video games and explains how they would occur if they were real. This is how I discovered CRISPR, a way to manipulate DNA at our own will. I was infatuated by this concept, I knew this was how I could fix myself and others like me. I knew I could never grow my leg back, but what if we could catch fibular hemimelia early enough in the womb to fix the gene that causes the mutation? I researched further and found another YouTuber, The Thought Emporium. A “biohacker” who found a way to cure himself of his lactose intolerance. He used an adeno-associated virus to transfer the correct genetic code into his gut. This was the perfect answer to the other problem. All I had to do was follow that literature and change the genetic code that was used. I was set. I have finally found a path, but it is expensive and thorough. My goals will be unachievable without financial assistance. I know this is what I am meant to do, and I will fight with every fiber of my being to achieve it. I have cemented on who and what I am going to be. I am going to be Danara N. Abshire. The person who changed the genetic medicine world.

Becoming a medical doctor, a researcher, is not only a professional decision; it’s personal, very personal. My entire life I have struggled with genetic conditions. One is fibular hemimelia, a deformity of the lower limbs. I have a classic textbook case that is mostly on my right side. The other issue is an exceedingly rare condition called Congenital Sucrase Isomaltase Deficiency. My body does not produce enzymes vital to break down sugars and starches. Unfortunately, no providers in my rural area knew the warning signs; it wasn’t even on their radar. I was, however, tested for nearly every possibility: allergies, infections, even Celiac Disease. Nothing surfaced. I was medically fine according to my local doctors. The doctors heard hoofbeats and thought horses. At that point, I knew I had to educate myself and become my expert and advocate. So I began to research and learn. I went without treatment for years with the presumption of “being an anxious woman”, where no one listened to my pain. I fought for myself, and finally, I was sent to a gastroenterologist in Denver, Colorado: Dr. Logan Gibson. He listened to me and heard zebras. I had it drilled into my head to think of horses so much that I didn’t believe him at first, even though I knew he was right. I didn’t want to get my hopes up. I was sent in for a colonoscopy. I will never forget when he looked me in the eyes and told me he knew what was wrong. As we talked about treatment, he explained that any care doesn’t do much and is incredibly expensive. I knew at that moment that genetics was my calling! I am going to fix this: for the kids who have to bring a “special lunch” to school, for the adults who have to excuse themselves from a company dinner, for those who have gone without, for those who must go out of their way to a metropolis for quality provisions, and for me. I have always been interested in the microscopic parts of the world. During the pandemic, I discovered the world of microbiology. I became obsessed. I immersed myself in everything I could. In my deep dive, I found a YouTuber, named Roanoke Gaming. He is a former microbiologist who takes disease and mutation concepts from video games and explains how they would occur if they were real. This is how I discovered CRISPR, a way to manipulate DNA at our own will. I was infatuated by this concept, I knew this was how I could fix myself and others like me. I knew I could never grow my leg back, but what if we could catch fibular hemimelia early enough in the womb to fix the gene that causes the mutation? I researched further and found another YouTuber, The Thought Emporium. A “biohacker” who found a way to cure himself of his lactose intolerance. He used an adeno-associated virus to transfer the correct genetic code into his gut. This was the perfect answer to the other problem. All I had to do was follow that literature and change the genetic code that was used. I was set. I have finally found a path, but it is expensive and thorough. My goals will be unachievable without financial assistance. I know this is what I am meant to do, and I will fight with every fiber of my being to achieve it. I have cemented on who and what I am going to be. I am going to be Danara N. Abshire. The person who changed the genetic medicine world.

Becoming a medical doctor, a researcher, is not only a professional decision; it’s personal, very personal. My entire life I have struggled with genetic conditions. One is fibular hemimelia, a deformity of the lower limbs. I have a classic textbook case that is mostly on my right side. The other issue is an exceedingly rare condition called Congenital Sucrase Isomaltase Deficiency. My body does not produce enzymes vital to break down sugars and starches. Unfortunately, no providers in my rural area knew the warning signs; it wasn’t even on their radar. I was, however, tested for nearly every possibility: allergies, infections, even Celiac Disease. Nothing surfaced. I was medically fine according to my local doctors. The doctors heard hoofbeats and thought horses. At that point, I knew I had to educate myself and become my expert and advocate. So I began to research and learn. I went without treatment for years with the presumption of “being an anxious woman”, where no one listened to my pain. I fought for myself, and finally, I was sent to a gastroenterologist in Denver, Colorado: Dr. Logan Gibson. He listened to me and heard zebras. I had it drilled into my head to think of horses so much that I didn’t believe him at first, even though I knew he was right. I didn’t want to get my hopes up. I was sent in for a colonoscopy. I will never forget when he looked me in the eyes and told me he knew what was wrong. As we talked about treatment, he explained that any care doesn’t do much and is incredibly expensive. I knew at that moment that genetics was my calling! I am going to fix this: for the kids who have to bring a “special lunch” to school, for the adults who have to excuse themselves from a company dinner, for those who have gone without, for those who must go out of their way to a metropolis for quality provisions, and for me. I have always been interested in the microscopic parts of the world. During the pandemic, I discovered the world of microbiology. I became obsessed. I immersed myself in everything I could. In my deep dive, I found a YouTuber, named Roanoke Gaming. He is a former microbiologist who takes disease and mutation concepts from video games and explains how they would occur if they were real. This is how I discovered CRISPR, a way to manipulate DNA at our own will. I was infatuated by this concept, I knew this was how I could fix myself and others like me. I knew I could never grow my leg back, but what if we could catch fibular hemimelia early enough in the womb to fix the gene that causes the mutation? I researched further and found another YouTuber, The Thought Emporium. A “biohacker” who found a way to cure himself of his lactose intolerance. He used an adeno-associated virus to transfer the correct genetic code into his gut. This was the perfect answer to the other problem. All I had to do was follow that literature and change the genetic code that was used. I was set. I have finally found a path, but it is expensive and thorough. My goals will be unachievable without financial assistance. I know this is what I am meant to do, and I will fight with every fiber of my being to achieve it. I have cemented on who and what I am going to be. I am going to be Danara N. Abshire. The person who changed the genetic medicine world.

Becoming a medical doctor, a researcher, is not only a professional decision; it’s personal, very personal. My entire life I have struggled with genetic conditions. One is fibular hemimelia, a deformity of the lower limbs. I have a classic textbook case that is mostly on my right side. The other issue is an exceedingly rare condition called Congenital Sucrase Isomaltase Deficiency. My body does not produce enzymes vital to break down sugars and starches. Unfortunately, no providers in my rural area knew the warning signs; it wasn’t even on their radar. I was, however, tested for nearly every possibility: allergies, infections, even Celiac Disease. Nothing surfaced. I was medically fine according to my local doctors. The doctors heard hoofbeats and thought horses. At that point, I knew I had to educate myself, and become my own expert and advocate. So I began to research and learn. I went without treatment for years with the presumption of “being an anxious woman”, where no one listened to my pain. I fought for myself, and finally, I was sent to a gastroenterologist in Denver, Colorado: Dr. Logan Gibson. He listened to me and heard zebras. I had it drilled into my head to think of horses so much that I didn’t believe him at first, even though I knew he was right. I didn’t want to get my hopes up. I was sent in for a colonoscopy. I will never forget when he looked me in the eyes and told me he knew what was wrong. As we talked about treatment, he explained that any care doesn’t help much and is incredibly expensive. I knew at that moment that genetics was my calling! I am going to fix this: for the kids who have to bring a “special lunch” to school, for the adults who have to excuse themselves from a company dinner, for those who have gone without, for those who must go out of their way to a metropolis for quality provisions, and for me. I have always been interested in the microscopic parts of the world. During the pandemic, I discovered the world of microbiology. I became obsessed. I immersed myself in everything I could. In my deep dive, I found a YouTuber, named Roanoke Gaming. He is a former microbiologist who takes disease and mutation concepts from video games and explains how they would occur if they were real. This is how I discovered CRISPR, a way to manipulate DNA at our own will. I was infatuated by this concept, I knew this was how I could fix myself and others like me. I knew I could never grow my leg back, but what if we could catch fibular hemimelia early enough in the womb to fix the gene that causes the mutation? I researched further and found another YouTuber, The Thought Emporium. He is a “biohacker” and found a way to cure himself of his lactose intolerance. He used an adeno-associated virus to transfer the correct genetic code into his gut. This was the perfect answer to the other problem. All I had to do was follow that literature and change the genetic code that was used. I was set. I have cemented on who and what I am going to be. I am going to be Danara N. Abshire. The person who changed the genetic medicine world.

Becoming a medical doctor, a researcher, is not only a professional decision; it’s personal, very personal. My entire life I have struggled with genetic conditions. One is fibular hemimelia, a deformity of the lower limbs. I have a classic textbook case that is mostly on my right side. The other issue is an exceedingly rare condition called Congenital Sucrase Isomaltase Deficiency. My body does not produce enzymes vital to break down sugars and starches. Unfortunately, no providers in my rural area knew the warning signs; it wasn’t even on their radar. I was, however, tested for nearly every possibility: allergies, infections, even Celiac Disease. Nothing surfaced. I was medically fine according to my local doctors. The doctors heard hoofbeats and thought horses. At that point, I knew I had to educate myself, and become my own expert and advocate. So I began to research and learn. I went without treatment for years with the presumption of “being an anxious woman”, where no one listened to my pain. I fought for myself, and finally, I was sent to a gastroenterologist in Denver, Colorado: Dr. Logan Gibson. He listened to me and heard zebras. I had it drilled into my head to think of horses so much that I didn’t believe him at first, even though I knew he was right. I didn’t want to get my hopes up. I was sent in for a colonoscopy. I will never forget when he looked me in the eyes and told me he knew what was wrong. As we talked about treatment, he explained that any care doesn’t help much and is incredibly expensive. I knew at that moment that genetics was my calling! I am going to fix this: for the kids who have to bring a “special lunch” to school, for the adults who have to excuse themselves from a company dinner, for those who have gone without, for those who must go out of their way to a metropolis for quality provisions, and for me. I have always been interested in the microscopic parts of the world. During the pandemic, I discovered the world of microbiology. I became obsessed. I immersed myself in everything I could. In my deep dive, I found a YouTuber, named Roanoke Gaming. He is a former microbiologist who takes disease and mutation concepts from video games and explains how they would occur if they were real. This is how I discovered CRISPR, a way to manipulate DNA at our own will. I was infatuated by this concept, I knew this was how I could fix myself and others like me. I knew I could never grow my leg back, but what if we could catch fibular hemimelia early enough in the womb to fix the gene that causes the mutation? I researched further and found another YouTuber, The Thought Emporium. He is a “biohacker” and found a way to cure himself of his lactose intolerance. He used an adeno-associated virus to transfer the correct genetic code into his gut. This was the perfect answer to the other problem. All I had to do was follow that literature and change the genetic code that was used. I was set. I have cemented on who and what I am going to be. I am going to be Danara N. Abshire. The person who changed the genetic medicine world.

I have always had an interest in the capacity of the human body. How our bodies build and rebuild themselves is one of the greatest marvels of the world. As a geneticist, I could explore the depths of the human genome and learn ways to manipulate it for the good. I will be able to make diseases actually work in our favor. My dream is to help many others, like me, who are struggling in rural areas to get the medical help they need. Becoming a medical doctor, a researcher, is not only a professional decision; it’s personal, very personal. My entire life I have struggled with genetic conditions. One is fibular hemimelia, a congenital deformity of the lower limbs. I have a classic textbook case that is mostly on my right side. The other issue is an exceedingly rare condition called Congenital Sucrase Isomaltase Deficiency. My body does not produce enzymes vital to break down sugars and starches. Unfortunately, no providers in my rural area knew the warning signs; it wasn’t even on their radar. I was, however, tested for nearly every possibility: allergies, infections, even Celiac Disease. Nothing surfaced. I was medically fine according to my local doctors. The doctors heard hoofbeats and thought horses. At that point, I knew I had to educate myself and become my own expert and advocate. So I began to research and learn. I went without treatment for years with the presumption of “being an anxious woman”, where no one listened to my pain. I fought for myself, and finally, I was sent to a gastroenterologist in Denver, Colorado: Dr. Logan Gibson. He listened to me and heard zebras. I had it drilled into my head to think of horses so much that I didn’t believe him at first, even though I knew he was right. I didn’t want to get my hopes up. I was sent in for a colonoscopy. I will never forget when he looked me in the eyes and told me he knew what was wrong. As we talked about treatment, he explained that any care doesn’t do much and is incredibly expensive. I knew at that moment that genetics was my calling! I am going to fix this: for the kids who have to bring a “special lunch” to school, for the adults who have to excuse themselves from a company dinner, for those who have gone without, for those who must go out of their way to a metropolis for quality provisions, and for me. I have always been interested in the microscopic parts of the world. During the pandemic, I discovered the world of microbiology. I became obsessed. I immersed myself in everything I could. In my deep dive, I found a YouTuber, named Roanoke Gaming. He is a former microbiologist who takes disease and mutation concepts from video games and explains how they would occur if they were real. This is how I discovered CRISPR, a way to manipulate DNA at our own will. I was infatuated by this concept, I knew this was how I could fix myself and others like me. I knew I could never grow my leg back, but what if we could catch fibular hemimelia early enough in the womb to fix the gene that causes the mutation? I researched further and found another YouTuber, The Thought Emporium. He is a “biohacker” and found a way to cure himself of his lactose intolerance. He used an adeno-associated virus to transfer the correct genetic code into his gut. This was the perfect answer to the other problem. All I had to do was follow that literature and change the genetic code that was used. I was set. I have the what, now all I needed was the where. Where do I get the education? Where do I get the lab? I thought about how I wanted to get my degree, which school I wanted to go to, and what degree I wanted to seek. That where, is Chadron State College and a Bachelors of Molecular Biology. I plan to pursue both an M.D. and a Ph.D in my lifetime. This allows me to both research to my heart's content and treat people in my community once I find out how to. I have finally found a path, but it is expensive and thorough. My goals will be unachievable without financial assistance. I know this is what I am meant to do, and I will fight with every fiber of my being to achieve it. I have cemented on who and what I am going to be. I am going to be Danara N. Abshire. The person who changed the genetic medicine world.

Becoming a medical doctor, a researcher, is not only a professional decision; it’s personal, very personal. My entire life I have struggled with genetic conditions. One is fibular hemimelia, a deformity of the lower limbs. I have a classic textbook case that is mostly on my right side. The other issue is an exceedingly rare condition called Congenital Sucrase Isomaltase Deficiency. My body does not produce enzymes vital to break down sugars and starches. Unfortunately, no providers in my rural area knew the warning signs; it wasn’t even on their radar. I was, however, tested for nearly every possibility: allergies, infections, even Celiac Disease. Nothing surfaced. I was medically fine according to my local doctors. The doctors heard hoofbeats and thought horses. At that point, I knew I had to educate myself, and become my own expert and advocate. So I began to research and learn. I went without treatment for years with the presumption of “being an anxious woman”, where no one listened to my pain. I fought for myself, and finally, I was sent to a gastroenterologist in Denver, Colorado: Dr. Logan Gibson. He listened to me and heard zebras. I had it drilled into my head to think of horses so much that I didn’t believe him at first, even though I knew he was right. I didn’t want to get my hopes up. I was sent in for a colonoscopy. I will never forget when he looked me in the eyes and told me he knew what was wrong. As we talked about treatment, he explained that any care doesn’t help much and is incredibly expensive. I knew at that moment that genetics was my calling! I am going to fix this: for the kids who have to bring a “special lunch” to school, for the adults who have to excuse themselves from a company dinner, for those who have gone without, for those who must go out of their way to a metropolis for quality provisions, and for me. I have always been interested in the microscopic parts of the world. During the pandemic, I discovered the world of microbiology. I became obsessed. I immersed myself in everything I could. In my deep dive, I found a YouTuber, named Roanoke Gaming. He is a former microbiologist who takes disease and mutation concepts from video games and explains how they would occur if they were real. This is how I discovered CRISPR, a way to manipulate DNA at our own will. I was infatuated by this concept, I knew this was how I could fix myself and others like me. I knew I could never grow my leg back, but what if we could catch fibular hemimelia early enough in the womb to fix the gene that causes the mutation? I researched further and found another YouTuber, The Thought Emporium. He is a “biohacker” and found a way to cure himself of his lactose intolerance. He used an adeno-associated virus to transfer the correct genetic code into his gut. This was the perfect answer to the other problem. All I had to do was follow that literature and change the genetic code that was used. I was set. I have cemented on who and what I am going to be. I am going to be Danara N. Abshire. The person who changed the genetic medicine world.