75 Feet That Changed My Life I always wondered what it would be like to fly, but never imagined I’d find out. A few years ago, I was walking home from soccer practice when I was hit by a car speeding through a crosswalk. The car hit me with such force I flew up into the sky. My body slammed down head-first on the pavement 75 feet away–where I was left fighting for my life. My tomorrow was not promised. But, I knew one thing: I would never give up. On my path to recovery, I discovered my strength, my determination, my resiliency. Life is full of challenges and obstacles. And, I’ve learned how to push myself beyond any limits–far past 75 feet! 25 feet Since I could walk, I’ve been a dedicated soccer player. As I grew older, I noticed profound gender inequalities among teams. For example, unlike the boys’ team, my team got 20-year-old, hand-me-down uniforms, no transportation to games, and low-quality playing fields. This was not okay. I had to do something. I joined a girls' ambassador program through my regional team and now write articles and participate in podcasts on topics important to female athletes. For my first assignment, I could write about anything I wanted. “How can I find a subject that appeals to young women worldwide?” Then, it hit me: I would write about female athletes and negative body image. When the club posted the article, it went viral among coaches and teams. I am determined to shed light on the constant challenges in women’s sports. 50 feet It was only 10:30 a.m., already 90 degrees and humid. I was just six weeks into coaching 5th-grade girls soccer. My co-coach was out sick, and only nine players showed up to the match (9v9). This was my first solo coaching experience. During warm-up, the girls fixated on the other team: “Look how many subs they have. We’re going to lose.” The negativity spread like wildfire. Despite my nerves, I had to project strength and confidence. I needed to be a leader for them. “Nope! We’re focusing on ourselves and our strengths. No matter the challenge, we’re going to take it on. We can do this!” Every minute, the girls gained confidence. They saw it in me; they saw it in each other. After the game, (we tied 2-2), I realized being a leader is about believing in yourself, your inner strength, and empowering the people around you. 75 feet I’ve always been fascinated by the medical field. I’m not sure if it was my accident or my mom’s cancer diagnosis two months later that lit my passion. Whatever the reason, I am inspired to help others. So, I contacted the national Team Cure organization to open a local chapter. When my application was accepted, reality hit: I actually had to start this club! “What if people don’t join? What if they join and quit? Well, to heck with it!” I worked hard–and was stunned when 50 people joined immediately! The Team Cure club is a big success. We’ve raised enough money to send care packages to many pediatric cancer patients nationwide. And, I’ve structured the club, so younger students can step up and continue the club after I graduate. And Beyond! My life is not defined by my near-death experience, but rather by the everyday challenges I’ve accepted to become a leader. I am determined to help others through my passion for the medical sciences, especially psychology. I continue to propel myself forward everyday to grow my infinite potential. Watch me!