When confronted with adversity, I choose to be stronger than any obstacle I am facing. At the age of two, my life was changed forever when I was diagnosed with the incurable disease, Type One Diabetes. Type One Diabetes or T1D is an autoimmune disease in which the body produces no insulin. Insulin is vital to the body because it allows the cells in our muscles, fat, and liver to absorb glucose. Glucose then serves as energy for our cells. Without insulin, there is no chance of survival. There is no cure for Type One Diabetes, and there is no way to prevent it. Even though I have been living with this disease for 15 years, I know there is still room to grow and learn from my situation. This illness has become a part of me, but it does not stop me from chasing after my dreams and achieving my aspirations. Being diagnosed at such a young age my life and my family's lives were flipped upside down. My family had to learn how to inject insulin into my tiny body multiple times a day. Taking insulin is not a cure, but taking insulin keeps me alive. I believe that even though I have faced such adversity, it has only made me stronger and braver. I have taken steps to take control of my health and ensure I live a healthy and long life. Living with T1D has also inspired me to pursue a degree in Health and Exercise Sciences to help other people live healthier lifestyles. There are many days when I want to quit and give up, but instead, I choose to be grateful for this life I have been given. This life has taught me so much; This life also allows me to show people that you should not let anything stop you because you can be so much stronger than anything you are facing. I could choose to let Type One Diabetes stop me and let it define who I am. But, instead, I choose to be stronger than this disease. I realize that I may not be able to change my situation, but I can change how I view it. Instead of living my life filled with disappointment, I choose to live it with happiness. I also know that better days are yet to come, and I hope I can inspire people to believe the same thing.

I say "no." As humans, we feel like we have to do everything all the time. The truth is there is only one of us, and sometimes it is ok to say no. I practice self-care by taking time to make sure my mental and physical health is strong. Taking time for myself can be going on a short walk or going to bed early. Taking time for myself also involves saying no to hanging out with my friends when I am overwhelmed or stressed. I go on a walk to help clear my mind. When I go on a walk, I put in my AirPods and play some worship music. Worship music helps me to focus my mind on the good in life. It also reminds me that God is always there for me no matter what. Going on a walk allows me to take in the beauty of nature while getting some physical exercise with nothing too strenuous. I have learned that my mental and physical health is so much more important than trying to overwork myself and making myself sick. It took me a while to learn. I am a competitive dancer, and I dance 14-16 hours a week. I had to teach myself that sometimes I need a break, and that is ok. I have to tell people that my body needs rest, and I have to do what is best so that in the future I can be just as strong. Practicing self-care did not come easy for me, however, it has helped me to live an overall happier and healthier life.