My name is Kyleigh Reeves, and I am passionate about using my future career in health care to make a meaningful difference in the world. As a freshman in college, I will be majoring in exercise science with the goal of becoming a physical therapist. This decision was deeply influenced by my personal experiences, particularly the struggles my grandfather faced before his passing in December 2024. His journey through physical therapy showed me the transformative power of movement and the profound impact that healthcare professionals can have on a person’s quality of life. Growing up, I was extremely close to my grandfather. He was not only a family member but one of my best friends. We spent countless hours together, sharing stories, laughing, and enjoying each other's company. However, as he grew older, I witnessed firsthand how debilitating it can be when the body begins to fail. My grandfather's physical health declined, and with it, his ability to move freely. This was heartbreaking to watch, as he had always been an active, strong man. But throughout this difficult time, I saw how physical therapy could help him regain some of his mobility. Watching the skilled therapists work with him, I realized how life-changing this form of healthcare could be. It was not just about regaining movement, but about restoring dignity, independence, and confidence. This experience ignited a deep passion in me to pursue a career where I could help others achieve the same. As I prepare to embark on my journey in physical therapy, I am also confronted with my own personal challenges. I have struggled with depression and anxiety, particularly during the past few years. There have been days when I felt overwhelmed and unsure of my future. But I have learned that, just like in physical therapy, healing and growth take time. It’s not about instant results but about progress, no matter how small. This mindset has helped me work through my mental health challenges and has made me more resilient. I believe that my experiences with mental health will allow me to connect with patients on a deeper level, understanding their struggles and supporting them as they work toward recovery. I am committed to using my education and personal experiences to change the world through health care. I hope to provide patients with the same hope and support that I witnessed him receive, helping them regain their strength and confidence. Beyond the physical benefits, I also want to offer emotional support, reminding my patients that they are not alone in their journeys. I am determined to show others that even in the face of adversity, there is always hope for a better tomorrow. Ultimately, I aim to contribute to a world where people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities have access to the care they need to live fulfilling lives. My passion for health care is driven by the belief that every person deserves to move, live, and thrive with dignity, and I am committed to helping make that a reality. Through my work as a physical therapist, I hope to inspire others, as my grandfather inspired me, to never give up on their journey toward healing.I will use my future education in exercise science and physical therapy to make a lasting impact, one patient at a time. With compassion, dedication, and a deep understanding of both physical and mental challenges, I believe I can help change the world, just as health care professionals changed my grandfather’s life.