My love for dairy will forever be my weakness. I have had many stomach issues since I was young. At 20 years old I finally found out that I have an allergy to dairy. My world was flipped upside down and I did not know what to do. I struggled to give up my favorite foods in order to start feeling better. What made this diagnosis difficult was the fact that I was not just allergic to lactose but every ingredient in dairy. Dairy as a whole makes my stomach upset, bloated, and causes my bowel habits unusual. Through the guidance of many specialists and nurses I have been ale to figure out a non dairy diet that I enjoy! My struggles with this particular food allergy made me want to become a nurse. I want to be there for patients and provide guidance during such a vulnerable time in their lives. I know there are many worse diagnoses than a food allergy. Personally, food allergies are just as difficult to deal with. I have had many other stomach issues throughout my life that steer me straight to my nursing career. I have had my gallbladder removed, have IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome), and of course my dairy allergy. All of these medical problems do not define me but they do make me stronger. I would love to care for my patients in ways that I was cared for. I want to be able to assist them in life changes, develop coping strategies, and be sympathetic and caring to their needs. This scholarship will benefit me in ways I could never explain. I am the first person in my entire family attending college. I have navigated this whole experience alone in order to purse my own dreams. I have a path to success and I need all the assistance I can get. My parents are not able to assist me financial. I have taken out loans and tried my best to receive academic rewards/grants. I am thankful that I have worked hard and have been benefited some. I would truly be so grateful and honored to receive any scholarship at any amount. It is something about just being chosen as sort of a boost to keep fighting for what I truly want. I want to become a nurse and further my education as well. Thank you so much for the consideration. Hope to hear from you soon! -Kaitlyn M. Miller