My Journey to Becoming a Nurse: Inspired by Personal Experience Growing up with chronic illnesses has given me a deep and personal understanding of the healthcare system. Over the years, I have spent countless hours in hospital rooms, undergoing treatments and navigating complex medical situations. These experiences have provided me with insight into the profound impact nurses can have on their patients. While I have encountered nurses who were less compassionate than I had hoped, I have also been fortunate to be cared for by those who exemplified kindness and empathy. Both experiences have shaped my aspiration to become a nurse—a role where I can ensure patients feel understood, valued, and cared for during some of their most vulnerable moments. A particularly defining moment for me occurred when I was in the labor and delivery unit for an emergency C-section at 35 weeks. It was an overwhelming experience filled with uncertainty and fear. During that time, the nurses played an essential role in not only providing medical care but also offering emotional support. Their ability to balance clinical precision with genuine compassion left an indelible impression on me. That experience solidified my desire to pursue nursing, with a specific interest in working with babies and children. I am especially drawn to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU). These units are places where life’s fragility is on full display, but they are also places of incredible resilience and hope. I want to be a part of the team that helps families navigate these challenging moments. For parents, having a child in the NICU or PICU is emotionally taxing, and I believe that empathy from their healthcare providers can make all the difference. I want to be the nurse who not only treats a child’s physical needs but also reassures parents, guiding them through every step with compassion and understanding. My personal health journey has provided me with a unique perspective that I believe will enhance my ability to connect with patients and their families. I understand firsthand the fear, frustration, and vulnerability that come with medical treatments, as well as the profound relief that comes from being cared for by someone who truly listens and empathizes. This perspective drives my commitment to creating a positive impact in the lives of others. Becoming a nurse is not just a career goal for me; it is a calling deeply rooted in my own life experiences. I want to take the lessons I have learned from both the positive and negative aspects of my healthcare journey and use them to provide the highest standard of care. My aspiration is to combine technical expertise with compassion, ensuring that every patient and family I encounter feels supported and valued. In doing so, I hope to make a meaningful difference, particularly for children and families navigating critical moments in their lives. Nursing is more than a profession—it is a way to channel my experiences into something transformative for others, and I am eager to begin this journey.

My Journey to Becoming a Nurse: Inspired by Personal Experience Growing up with chronic illnesses has given me a deep and personal understanding of the healthcare system. Over the years, I have spent countless hours in hospital rooms, undergoing treatments and navigating complex medical situations. These experiences have provided me with insight into the profound impact nurses can have on their patients. While I have encountered nurses who were less compassionate than I had hoped, I have also been fortunate to be cared for by those who exemplified kindness and empathy. Both experiences have shaped my aspiration to become a nurse—a role where I can ensure patients feel understood, valued, and cared for during some of their most vulnerable moments. A particularly defining moment for me occurred when I was in the labor and delivery unit for an emergency C-section at 35 weeks. It was an overwhelming experience filled with uncertainty and fear. During that time, the nurses played an essential role in not only providing medical care but also offering emotional support. Their ability to balance clinical precision with genuine compassion left an indelible impression on me. That experience solidified my desire to pursue nursing, with a specific interest in working with babies and children. I am especially drawn to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU). These units are places where life’s fragility is on full display, but they are also places of incredible resilience and hope. I want to be a part of the team that helps families navigate these challenging moments. For parents, having a child in the NICU or PICU is emotionally taxing, and I believe that empathy from their healthcare providers can make all the difference. I want to be the nurse who not only treats a child’s physical needs but also reassures parents, guiding them through every step with compassion and understanding. My personal health journey has provided me with a unique perspective that I believe will enhance my ability to connect with patients and their families. I understand firsthand the fear, frustration, and vulnerability that come with medical treatments, as well as the profound relief that comes from being cared for by someone who truly listens and empathizes. This perspective drives my commitment to creating a positive impact in the lives of others. Becoming a nurse is not just a career goal for me; it is a calling deeply rooted in my own life experiences. I want to take the lessons I have learned from both the positive and negative aspects of my healthcare journey and use them to provide the highest standard of care. My aspiration is to combine technical expertise with compassion, ensuring that every patient and family I encounter feels supported and valued. In doing so, I hope to make a meaningful difference, particularly for children and families navigating critical moments in their lives. Nursing is more than a profession—it is a way to channel my experiences into something transformative for others, and I am eager to begin this journey.

My Journey to Becoming a Nurse: Inspired by Personal Experience Growing up with chronic illnesses has given me a deep and personal understanding of the healthcare system. Over the years, I have spent countless hours in hospital rooms, undergoing treatments and navigating complex medical situations. These experiences have provided me with insight into the profound impact nurses can have on their patients. While I have encountered nurses who were less compassionate than I had hoped, I have also been fortunate to be cared for by those who exemplified kindness and empathy. Both experiences have shaped my aspiration to become a nurse—a role where I can ensure patients feel understood, valued, and cared for during some of their most vulnerable moments. A particularly defining moment for me occurred when I was in the labor and delivery unit for an emergency C-section at 35 weeks. It was an overwhelming experience filled with uncertainty and fear. During that time, the nurses played an essential role in not only providing medical care but also offering emotional support. Their ability to balance clinical precision with genuine compassion left an indelible impression on me. That experience solidified my desire to pursue nursing, with a specific interest in working with babies and children. I am especially drawn to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU). These units are places where life’s fragility is on full display, but they are also places of incredible resilience and hope. I want to be a part of the team that helps families navigate these challenging moments. For parents, having a child in the NICU or PICU is emotionally taxing, and I believe that empathy from their healthcare providers can make all the difference. I want to be the nurse who not only treats a child’s physical needs but also reassures parents, guiding them through every step with compassion and understanding. My personal health journey has provided me with a unique perspective that I believe will enhance my ability to connect with patients and their families. I understand firsthand the fear, frustration, and vulnerability that come with medical treatments, as well as the profound relief that comes from being cared for by someone who truly listens and empathizes. This perspective drives my commitment to creating a positive impact in the lives of others. Becoming a nurse is not just a career goal for me; it is a calling deeply rooted in my own life experiences. I want to take the lessons I have learned from both the positive and negative aspects of my healthcare journey and use them to provide the highest standard of care. My aspiration is to combine technical expertise with compassion, ensuring that every patient and family I encounter feels supported and valued. In doing so, I hope to make a meaningful difference, particularly for children and families navigating critical moments in their lives. Nursing is more than a profession—it is a way to channel my experiences into something transformative for others, and I am eager to begin this journey.

My Journey to Becoming a Nurse: Inspired by Personal Experience Growing up with chronic illnesses has given me a deep and personal understanding of the healthcare system. Over the years, I have spent countless hours in hospital rooms, undergoing treatments and navigating complex medical situations. These experiences have provided me with insight into the profound impact nurses can have on their patients. While I have encountered nurses who were less compassionate than I had hoped, I have also been fortunate to be cared for by those who exemplified kindness and empathy. Both experiences have shaped my aspiration to become a nurse—a role where I can ensure patients feel understood, valued, and cared for during some of their most vulnerable moments. A particularly defining moment for me occurred when I was in the labor and delivery unit for an emergency C-section at 35 weeks. It was an overwhelming experience filled with uncertainty and fear. During that time, the nurses played an essential role in not only providing medical care but also offering emotional support. Their ability to balance clinical precision with genuine compassion left an indelible impression on me. That experience solidified my desire to pursue nursing, with a specific interest in working with babies and children. I am especially drawn to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU). These units are places where life’s fragility is on full display, but they are also places of incredible resilience and hope. I want to be a part of the team that helps families navigate these challenging moments. For parents, having a child in the NICU or PICU is emotionally taxing, and I believe that empathy from their healthcare providers can make all the difference. I want to be the nurse who not only treats a child’s physical needs but also reassures parents, guiding them through every step with compassion and understanding. My personal health journey has provided me with a unique perspective that I believe will enhance my ability to connect with patients and their families. I understand firsthand the fear, frustration, and vulnerability that come with medical treatments, as well as the profound relief that comes from being cared for by someone who truly listens and empathizes. This perspective drives my commitment to creating a positive impact in the lives of others. Becoming a nurse is not just a career goal for me; it is a calling deeply rooted in my own life experiences. I want to take the lessons I have learned from both the positive and negative aspects of my healthcare journey and use them to provide the highest standard of care. My aspiration is to combine technical expertise with compassion, ensuring that every patient and family I encounter feels supported and valued. In doing so, I hope to make a meaningful difference, particularly for children and families navigating critical moments in their lives. Nursing is more than a profession—it is a way to channel my experiences into something transformative for others, and I am eager to begin this journey.

Growing up with chronic illnesses has given me a personal understanding of the healthcare system. Over the years, I have spent countless hours in hospital rooms, undergoing treatments and complex medical situations. These experiences have provided me with insight into the impact nurses can have on their patients. While I have encountered nurses who were less compassionate than I had hoped, I have also been fortunate to be cared for by those who exemplified kindness and empathy. Both experiences have shaped my aspiration to become a nurse—a role where I can ensure patients feel understood, valued, and cared for during some of their most vulnerable moments. A particularly defining moment for me occurred when I was in the labor and delivery unit for an emergency C-section at 35 weeks. It was an overwhelming experience filled with so much uncertainty and fear. During that time, the nurses played an essential role in not only providing medical care but also offering emotional support. Their ability to balance their clinical precision with genuine compassion left an impression on me. That experience solidified my desire to pursue nursing, with a specific interest in working with babies and children. I am especially drawn to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU). These units are places where life’s fragility is on full display, but they are also places of incredible resilience and hope. I want to be a part of the team that helps families navigate these challenging moments. For parents, having a child in the NICU or PICU is emotionally taxing, and I believe that empathy from their healthcare providers can make all the difference. I want to be the nurse who not only treats a child’s physical needs but also reassures parents, guiding them through every step with compassion and understanding. My personal health journey has provided me with a unique perspective that I believe will enhance my ability to connect with patients and their families. I understand firsthand the fear, frustration, and vulnerability that come with medical treatments, as well as the profound relief that comes from being cared for by someone who truly listens and empathizes. This perspective drives my commitment to creating a positive impact in the lives of others. Becoming a nurse is not just a career goal for me; it is a calling deeply rooted in my own life experiences. I want to take the lessons I have learned from both the positive and negative aspects of my healthcare journey and use them to provide the highest standard of care. My aspiration is to combine technical expertise with compassion, ensuring that every patient and family I encounter feels supported and valued. In doing so, I hope to make a meaningful difference, particularly for children and families navigating critical moments in their lives.

Being a part of the disabled community has significantly shaped my view of the world, providing me with a deeper understanding and empathy, and the value of inclusivity. Living with nf, and enduring many spinal surgeries at the ages of 7, 18, and 21, then going on managing Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) has given me a unique eqpirence through which I see challengesand growth. From a young age, I learned that life doesn’t always follow a predictable path. My spinal surgery at the age of 7, the beginning of a journey that demanded patience and strength. At an age when most children were exploring the world carefree, I was introduced to hospital rooms, recovery plans, and the power of perseverance. This early experience taught me that strength isn’t about avoiding difficulty but about facing it with determination . I wanted to go home so bad my suergon Dr.Gabos of Depont said when you can walk up the stairs you can go home. I said OKAY! and I osuhed through it and went home weeks eitherler than other s did, I was called his star for how hard I worked. This gave me the motivation to push forward. As I grew older, further surgeries at 18 and 21 brought new layers of complexity with dmange botched surgeies and spinal stenosis. Adolescence and early adulthood are naturally times of self-discovery and growth, but for me, these periods also involved physical pain, recovery, and the emotional weight of balancing medical needs with personal ambitions. Managing POTS added another dimension, requiring constant adaptability to navigate daily life. I also missed out on gym classes through out my adolencence sitting on the sidelines. these moments that might seem small but isolating of the impact of chronic conditions. At 27, I faced another significant challenge when I underwent radiation treatment for an optic nerve glioma due to nf, a process that tested my resolve once again. Being part of the disabled community has connected me with others who face their own unique battles. It's a reminder that we are not alone in our struggles, and that there is a supportive community that understands and empathizes. I’ve seen firsthand how vital accessibility and inclusion are, not just in physical spaces but also in attitudes and opportunities. I’ve learned to celebrate small victories and to approach obstacles with creativity and persistence. This perspective enables me to connect deeply with others, offering support and encouragement while advocating for greater awareness and inclusivity. In my future endeavors, I aim to use these experiences to inspire positive change. Whether through storytelling, advocacy, or innovation, I want to amplify the voices of the disabled community and promote understanding. Personal stories have a unique power to foster empathy and understanding, and I believe that by sharing my journey, I can help break down barriers and promote a more inclusive society. I hope to show that disability is not a limitation but a source of unique strength and perspective. This past year I was featured on the children's tumor foundation as one of the NF heros!

Being a part of the disabled community has significantly shaped my view of the world, providing me with a deeper understanding and empathy, and the value of inclusivity. Living with nf, and enduring many spinal surgeries at the ages of 7, 18, and 21, then going on managing Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) has given me a unique eqpirence through which I see challengesand growth. From a young age, I learned that life doesn’t always follow a predictable path. My spinal surgery at the age of 7, the beginning of a journey that demanded patience and strength. At an age when most children were exploring the world carefree, I was introduced to hospital rooms, recovery plans, and the power of perseverance. This early experience taught me that strength isn’t about avoiding difficulty but about facing it with determination . I wanted to go home so bad my suergon Dr.Gabos of Depont said when you can walk up the stairs you can go home. I said OKAY! and I osuhed through it and went home weeks eitherler than other s did, I was called his star for how hard I worked. This gave me the motivation to push forward. As I grew older, further surgeries at 18 and 21 brought new layers of complexity with dmange botched surgeies and spinal stenosis. Adolescence and early adulthood are naturally times of self-discovery and growth, but for me, these periods also involved physical pain, recovery, and the emotional weight of balancing medical needs with personal ambitions. Managing POTS added another dimension, requiring constant adaptability to navigate daily life. I also missed out on gym classes through out my adolencence sitting on the sidelines. these moments that might seem small but isolating of the impact of chronic conditions. At 27, I faced another significant challenge when I underwent radiation treatment for an optic nerve glioma due to nf, a process that tested my resolve once again. Being part of the disabled community has connected me with others who face their own unique battles. It's a reminder that we are not alone in our struggles, and that there is a supportive community that understands and empathizes. I’ve seen firsthand how vital accessibility and inclusion are, not just in physical spaces but also in attitudes and opportunities. I’ve learned to celebrate small victories and to approach obstacles with creativity and persistence. This perspective enables me to connect deeply with others, offering support and encouragement while advocating for greater awareness and inclusivity. In my future endeavors, I aim to use these experiences to inspire positive change. Whether through storytelling, advocacy, or innovation, I want to amplify the voices of the disabled community and promote understanding. Personal stories have a unique power to foster empathy and understanding, and I believe that by sharing my journey, I can help break down barriers and promote a more inclusive society. I hope to show that disability is not a limitation but a source of unique strength and perspective. This past year I was featured on the chiildrens tumor foundation as one of the NF heros!

When I was 19 My grandmother, the cornerstone of our family, passed away on Christmas night or early the morning after. I had been at a friend's house and got that call at 8 AM. She had been battling breast cancer amongst some othering things. She had surgery for her arm breaking I think or was told it was worse than what I was told then at the time. I had helped take care of her while she was in hospice as I had BLS training with working at the fire station. I remember calling 911 for her the night it started and spiraled I had called dispatch and then got the page for the call. My colleges came to the house to help her. Her strength and resilience inspiring us all even as the disease took its toll. When she left us, it felt as though a piece of our foundation had been torn away. The magic of Christmas forever changed for me that night, replaced by a profound grief and an ache that would linger long after. I did not go home for three months it just felt too painful to deal with. Alone with the guilt of not being home and being a 'kid' who took my loved one's for granted. Fast forward ten years to 2022, another devastating loss shook my world. I was pregnant, a time that should have been filled with hope and anticipation, when my stepdad passed away. I had told my mother and was waiting to call my stepfather that Saturday. He passed on a Thursday. His death was sudden and heartbreaking, Between tied to complications from a traumatic brain injury caused by PRES (posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome) and a possible heart attack, there's much more into it that we needed detectives involved because of him being in a nursing home to help him there was over time some belief of neglect, but I digress. The condition had altered so much about him in such a short time from outgoing and the life of a party to having a span of memory of about 10 seconds some days. This cruel twist of fate that he passed just as I carried the life of his future grandchild within me hit hard. The grief felt heavier knowing he would never meet my child, never see the joy his presence brought to our family reflected in the next generation. Losing these two pillars of my family shaped my life in profound ways. My grandmother and my stepdad each left a legacy of love and resilience that continues to influence me. At 19, I struggled to understand how to navigate the void my grandmother’s death left behind. At 27, as a parent-to-be, I had to confront the bittersweet reality of bringing new life into a world where my stepdad no longer existed. These experiences taught me the importance of cherishing every moment with loved ones and the value of carrying their memories forward. Grief is a strange companion, one that never truly leaves but evolves, teaching us to carry memories like treasures. Each Christmas, I light a candle for my grandmother, remembering her and each time I hold my child, I think of my them both, imagining the love and pride they would have showered upon this little girl. Their absence is deeply felt, but their spirits endure in the stories I share, the traditions I keep alive, and the love I pass down. These losses have taught me that life’s hardest moments can coexist with its most beautiful ones.

Returning to school to pursue a nursing career while balancing the responsibilities of parenthood and work is a has been a challenge to say the least. As a mother to a two-year-old My daughter Raven, and as someone striving to build a future in healthcare, my experiences have been both overwhelming but also deeply rewarding. One of the most significant challenges I’ve encountered is managing time effectively. Between caring for Raven, maintaining a job, as well as keeping up with demanding coursework, finding balance often feels like walking a tightrope. A typical day is packed with early mornings to prepare meals and late nights spent studying once my daughter is asleep. The constant pressure to excel in all areas can be exhausting I tend to be a perfectionist in my schoolwork, leaving little time for self-care. To manage this, I’ve relied on meticulous planning and prioritization. Creating many detailed schedules and trying to set realistic goals for each day have allowed me to allocate time more effectively, ensuring that neither my studies nor my daughter’s needs are neglected. Returning to school has also presented financial challenges. Tuition fees, books, and daily expenses add up quickly. Balancing these costs while working means there is little room for unexpected expenses. To ease this burden, I’ve sought out scholarships and financial aid programs specifically for parents returning to school. Additionally, careful budgeting and cutting unnecessary expenses have helped stretch every dollar further. Another challenge has been maintaining emotional resilience amidst the stress. There are days when the weight of responsibilities feels overwhelming, and the fear of failure seems to swallow me. However, reminding myself of why I’m pursuing this path has been a powerful motivator along with seeing my daughter! I want to do everything I can for her. I often picture Raven’s future and the opportunities I hope to provide for her. Leaning on a support system of family and friends has also been invaluable, as their encouragement reminds me that I’m not alone in this journey. Watching Raven’s curious eyes and playful energy reminds me of the importance of perseverance. I want to show her that it is possible to overcome obstacles and achieve dreams through hard work and determination. Every milestone I reach—whether it’s acing an exam or mastering a clinical skill—brings me closer to providing her with the life she deserves. Returning to school as a working mother requires immense dedication and resilience. The challenges I’ve faced have tested my limits. Yet, they have also strengthened my resolve and taught me valuable lessons about perseverance and adaptability. By focusing on my goals and relying on a strong support system, I am proving to myself and to Raven that no dream is out of reach. This journey is not just about earning a degree; it is about building a future defined by hope, opportunity, and unwavering love for my daughter.

Returning to school to pursue a nursing career while balancing the responsibilities of parenthood and work is a has been a challenge to say the least. As a mother to a two-year-old My daughter Raven, and as someone striving to build a future in healthcare, my experiences have been both overwhelming but also deeply rewarding. One of the most significant challenges I’ve encountered is managing time effectively. Between caring for Raven, maintaining a job, as well as keeping up with demanding coursework, finding balance often feels like walking a tightrope. A typical day is packed with early mornings to prepare meals and late nights spent studying once my daughter is asleep. The constant pressure to excel in all areas can be exhausting I tend to be a perfectionist in my schoolwork, leaving little time for self-care. To manage this, I’ve relied on meticulous planning and prioritization. Creating many detailed schedules and trying to set realistic goals for each day have allowed me to allocate time more effectively, ensuring that neither my studies nor my daughter’s needs are neglected. Returning to school has also presented financial challenges. Tuition fees, books, and daily expenses add up quickly. Balancing these costs while working means there is little room for unexpected expenses. To ease this burden, I’ve sought out scholarships and financial aid programs specifically for parents returning to school. Additionally, careful budgeting and cutting unnecessary expenses have helped stretch every dollar further. Another challenge has been maintaining emotional resilience amidst the stress. There are days when the weight of responsibilities feels overwhelming, and the fear of failure seems to swallow me. However, reminding myself of why I’m pursuing this path has been a powerful motivator along with seeing my daughter! I want to do everything I can for her. I often picture Raven’s future and the opportunities I hope to provide for her. Leaning on a support system of family and friends has also been invaluable, as their encouragement reminds me that I’m not alone in this journey. Watching Raven’s curious eyes and playful energy reminds me of the importance of perseverance. I want to show her that it is possible to overcome obstacles and achieve dreams through hard work and determination. Every milestone I reach—whether it’s acing an exam or mastering a clinical skill—brings me closer to providing her with the life she deserves. Returning to school as a working mother requires immense dedication and resilience. The challenges I’ve faced have tested my limits. Yet, they have also strengthened my resolve and taught me valuable lessons about perseverance and adaptability. By focusing on my goals and relying on a strong support system, I am proving to myself and to Raven that no dream is out of reach. This journey is not just about earning a degree; it is about building a future defined by hope, opportunity, and unwavering love for my daughter.

In 2021, I was diagnosed with an optic nerve glioma. I have a condition called Neurofibromatosis (NF), which causes tumor and fibroma growth. This tumor was present on a scan from 2017, but no one had informed me about it. For a long time, I had been suffering from severe pain that we thought was just optical migraines. The tumor was discovered when I went to work one morning and suddenly experienced blurry vision, accompanied by a bad headache and nausea. I went to the local emergency room, where I stayed for six hours before being transferred to a university hospital. I spent another six hours in the ER there—during a Bucks game, no less—while my fiancé watched the game on his phone sitting beside me. After all that waiting and some preliminary checks while we waited for the specialist, I was admitted to the hospital. We went through a series of imaging tests, including CT scans and MRIs. While we were waiting for the results, the neuro-oncology team arrived, consisting of about seven doctors. They explained to me that the scans could indicate a tumor or multiple sclerosis (MS). At that moment, I felt helpless; neither option sounded good. I was told that if the scans came back without definitive answers, a spinal tap would be necessary, and that frightened me since I had previously undergone spinal fusion surgery. I worried about how they would perform the procedure. At that time, I was still working at the same bar where I am now employed. One of the owners came to visit, although his wife had to wait outside because we were limited in how many visitors were allowed. He asked if he could hear what the doctors had to say. I agreed because he was my boss, and I would have to inform him regardless. The doctors quickly broke the news: it was indeed a tumor, and they would return to discuss further details. He asked if I was okay, and I replied that I was, though inside I was overwhelmed with tears. For a few months following the diagnosis, I felt shock and an inability to process my emotions. We met with the oncology team to discuss treatment options, specifically whether I wanted chemotherapy or radiation first. I chose radiation, as it seemed to make more sense, and since there was a chance I would need it anyway, I figured it was the best option. My time at the clinic was excellent; the nurses were caring and supportive. Despite feeling sick and scared, they helped me through the whole experience. I had since re-ignited my passion for wanting to be in the medical field and this was driven even more after in 2022 I got pregnant and had a baby girl! She was born prematurely but did not require NICU care. My personal experiences, coupled with the loss of a friend to childhood cancer who had Ewing sarcoma and passed away six years ago at the age of 19 , have fueled my desire to work in the NICU, PICU, or in pediatric oncology.