Growing up, I always knew I wanted to help people, whether it be emotionally, physically, or mentally. The person who inspired this desire the most was my father, Joseph Orefice. In 2020, at the age of forty-five, he was diagnosed with ALS. Over the next two years, I witnessed the devastating progression of the disease as it slowly took him away, not only physically, but spiritually as well. Before this experience, I had never considered pursuing a career in the medical or mental health field. I struggled with seeing people in pain, especially those suffering from illness. However, when my father returned home from the hospital, my mother, brother, and I became responsible for his everyday care. At just fourteen years old, I was helping navigate a reality that no child my age is ever truly prepared for. When he was hospitalized for the second time, he passed away. I began my freshman year of high school grieving the loss of my father. He was well known in our town, so I was often approached by people asking about him. Repeatedly explaining his condition and passing became emotionally overwhelming, and I found myself struggling both mentally and emotionally. Despite these challenges, I remained involved in the ALS community. My family and I have participated in the ALS Walk each year in early June. After attending for several years, I was given the opportunity to speak as a child of a parent with ALS. Sharing my story allowed me to advocate for awareness and emphasize the importance of finding a cure, so that no other child has to endure the pain that my brother and I experienced. During this difficult time, I found support in my school’s guidance counselor. She understood my situation and provided me with a safe space to process my emotions. Each month, she gave me the opportunity to step away from my classes when I needed it most. She shared stories about my father, listened without judgment, and helped me begin to heal. Through her support, I was able to rediscover myself and reconnect with my passion for helping others. Due to these experiences, I aspire to become a psychologist or a therapist. I understand what it feels like to carry grief and uncertainty, and I want to be a source of support for children who may be suffering in silence. My goal is to create a safe environment where young individuals feel heard, understood, and supported. I have always known that I wanted to work with children, and over time, my interest in the human mind has only deepened. I am committed to turning my experiences into purpose by helping others navigate their own challenges.