This is the story of a young girl who witnessed firsthand the injustices of the healthcare system, who became the caretaker of her mother, and whose journey through adversity ignited a passion to transform the landscape of healthcare for African American women. This is a story of resilience, compassion, and the transformative power of love in the face of adversity. The day my mother was diagnosed with cancer my life changed completely. I was only ten years old and barely had an understanding of what was happening to my mother. My mom was diagnosed with breast cancer on March 2nd, 2017. My mother unfortunately didn’t know she had breast cancer for years. My mother was a 32-year-old black woman and she went to multiple doctors complaining of pain and not once did any doctor get her screened for cancer. My mother had multiple doctors tell her she was lying or that it was all in her head. She suffered for years because so many doctors ignored her. Being only ten I didn't understand why no one wanted to help my mother. I had seen many of my caucasian counterparts get treated for their cancer immediately. But my mother was denied treatment so many times and now I realize it was because of the way she looked. As an African American woman my mother was automatically labeled as a liar, aggressive, unimportant. So my mother never sought treatment. She only got help because she was rushed to the emergency room. After so many years we finally got the answers we were searching for. My mother had breast cancer and she had to have her left breast removed. I never thought I would have to care for my mom. For months I looked after her, showered her, cooked for her, and more. This was the first time in my life I saw someone I loved dying right In front of my eyes. Those moments forever influenced my life. Being the sole caretaker of my mother I often thought maybe if I did something different, given her more medicine, or cooked better food she would be back to her old self. One day I told her how I felt and she said that she wouldn’t even be here if it wasn’t for me. That completely changed my mindset, although I had to go through this horrible experience, I helped someone heal. I was able to change someone’s life by caring for them. I saw the impact of being a caring person. I could heal with my words, my hands, and my love. I never thought that having a simple thing such as love could change someone’s life. As I got older and started to experience my health issues with Endometriosis and Interstitial Cystitis. Many doctors would not try to help me. I too suffered a similar fate to what my mother did. I realized that I needed to change the way African American Women were treated when it came to health care. I am now 17 years old and will be pursuing a career In pediatric nursing. My mom as well as my own experiences with healthcare workers has inspired me to help others. I want to change someone’s life like how I changed my mom's life. I will make a difference by creating a space where African American Women and girls can feel heard and get the health care we deserve. I would’ve never thought such a dreadful encounter with cancer would change my heart for the better.

My mom was diagnosed with breast cancer on March 2nd, 2017. My mother unfortunately didn’t know she had breast cancer for years. My mother was a 32-year-old black woman and she went to multiple doctors complaining of pain and not once did any doctor get her screened for cancer. My mother had multiple doctors tell her she was lying or that it was all in her head. She suffered for years because so many doctors ignored her. Being only ten I didn't understand why no one wanted to help my mother. I had seen many of my caucasian counterparts get treated for their cancer immediately. But my mother was denied treatment so many times and now I realize it was because of the way she looked. As an African American woman my mother was automatically labeled as a liar, aggressive, unimportant. So my mother never sought treatment. She only got help because she had to be rushed to the emergency room. After so many years my family finally got the answers we were searching for. My mother had breast cancer and she had to have her left breast removed. And sadly like my mother I suffer a similar fate. I am a 17-year-old high school senior, yet my high school experience has been anything but typical. Throughout all four years, I've grappled with the challenges of my health, battling against endometriosis and Interstitial Cystitis. In my freshman year, my mother tirelessly searched for doctors who could provide relief, but the road to diagnosis was long with disbelief and dismissal. Countless doctors ignored my pain, some even accusing me of lying. Nights were spent in tears as we struggled to find someone willing to help. The journey to a diagnosis spanned four agonizing years, and even then, the journey was far from over. Surgery became a necessary part of my treatment, yet the care I received at the surgery center left much to be desired. Despite the physical and emotional toll, I remained committed to my education, studying diligently even during extended absences. Now, as a senior, facing yet another surgery and many months away from school, I refuse to let adversity affect my dreams. Despite the neglect I endured, I am determined to pursue my passion for pediatric nursing. I envision a future where every person is heard, never ignored, and where compassionate care prevails over indifference. To those facing similar challenges, I offer this advice: never surrender to adversity. Though the journey may be difficult, it is merely the beginning to a life filled with possibility. Let your struggles fuel your determination to effect change. For me, the horrible experience with healthcare has only strengthened my passion to dismantle the toxic healthcare systems that fail so many. Let adversity become the root for the transformative change our world so desperately needs.

The lack of proper healthcare, especially among black women, is a pressing issue in my community, one that I've experienced firsthand. Two years ago I was diagnosed with endometriosis. I had multiple healthcare professionals dismiss my claims that I was in pain. Some days I couldn't even walk or move and I would end up in the emergency just for the doctor to tell me I was exaggerating. I could've gotten help much sooner and avoided having surgery if I had doctors cared about me enough and took the time to diagnose me. It wasn’t until I went to a black doctor who diagnosed me and provided me with the help needed. Too often, black women face disbelief and dismissal in healthcare settings, leading to years of inadequate care. This neglect and prejudice have had dire consequences, with many women suffering and even dying as a result. Due to the demographics of my neighborhood, healthcare professions are primarily occupied by white individuals. Residing in a predominantly black community, I often find a lack of shared cultural experiences between healthcare providers and patients. This disconnect can hinder effective communication and understanding. To address this issue, I am working on initiatives within my organization to encourage women, especially black women, to pursue careers in healthcare beyond nursing, including becoming doctors. By fostering this support system, we hope to empower more black women to pursue medical careers within their local communities, ultimately bridging the gap and making a meaningful difference in healthcare access and understanding. With a passion for making a difference, I intend to pursue a nursing degree at Texas University, aspiring to become a nurse practitioner. My goal is to advocate for policy changes at local and state levels, collaborating with existing advocacy groups, lobbying policymakers, and raising public awareness through campaigns. Additionally, I plan to establish a women's health organization during college to ensure that all women, especially those of color, receive the quality care they deserve. This organization will focus on organizing community outreach programs and health education workshops tailored specifically to the needs of black women. Topics will include preventive care, reproductive health, mental health awareness, and navigating the healthcare system. By empowering women to advocate for themselves and demand better healthcare, we can create a brighter, healthier future for our community. My passion and compassion for others drive my commitment to making a profound impact on your community. By leading with empathy and dedication, I not only seek to improve the lives of black women but also aspire to ignite a ripple effect of positive change among my peers and beyond. My vision is one where every black woman feels valued, heard, and safe within healthcare environments—a vision that holds immense potential to transform the landscape of healthcare equity. With my unwavering determination and spirit of advocacy, I am not just envisioning a better future; you are actively shaping it, paving the way for a world where every individual's health needs are met with dignity and respect.

Madison Maxey 11/22/2023 At the age of 17, I wear multiple hats with pride – a high school student with a love for volleyball and tennis, and a dedicated volunteer at both my church and tennis organization. On Sundays, you'll find me ensuring the safety and joy of infants at my church, and come weekends, I transform into a tennis instructor, imparting skills to eager young minds. Yet, my aspirations stretch far beyond the court and pew. As I stand on the brink of higher education, I harbor a profound vision: the establishment of a Women's Health Club. This ambitious endeavor is rooted in a commitment to equipping women with vital information and resources, particularly concerning the often-neglected symptoms of conditions like endometriosis, uterine cancer, and breast cancer. This vision is deeply personal. Having navigated the challenges of endometriosis, I was dismayed by the lack of timely resources and information that could have led to an earlier diagnosis. This frustration transformed into a determination to ensure that other women did not endure the same hurdles. As I chart my course into college, the Women's Health Club will take shape as a beacon of support and empowerment. My dream extends beyond mere awareness – envision a nonprofit organization borne from this club, channeling resources to women in need, ensuring they have the financial means to access crucial treatments. This twofold approach, combining education and tangible support, forms the core of my mission. Simultaneously, I aspire to pursue a career in pediatric nursing. My love for children stems from the belief that they are the architects of our future, and I am driven to ensure they have a positive experience with healthcare professionals. My goal is to instill in them a sense of well-being and compassion, hoping that they, in turn, will be inspired to extend a helping hand to others in the future. The desire to make a difference extends beyond women's health – it transcends age boundaries. With the skills and knowledge gained through my nursing career, I aim to fortify the impact of the Women's Health Club, creating a holistic approach to community well-being. In essence, my journey is a tapestry woven with threads of determination, compassion, and an unyielding commitment to making a positive impact. The seeds of change are planted in my community service, watered by my personal experiences, and are poised to flourish in the fields of education, healthcare, and nonprofit initiatives. As I step into the next chapter, I carry not just dreams but a blueprint for a better, healthier, and more informed community.

Madison Maxey 10-12-2023 The day my mother was diagnosed with cancer my life changed completely. I was only ten years old and barely had an understanding of what was happening to my mother. My mom was diagnosed with breast cancer on March 2nd, 2017. My mother unfortunately didn’t know she had breast cancer for years. My mother was a 32-year-old black woman and she went to multiple doctors complaining of pain and not once did any doctor get her screened for cancer. My mother had multiple doctors tell her she was lying or that it was all in her head. She suffered for years because so many doctors ignored her. Being only ten I didn't understand why no one wanted to help my mother. I had seen many of my other family members who were caucasian get treated for their cancer immediately. But my mother was denied treatment so many times and now I realize it was because of how she looked. So my mother never sought treatment. She only got help because she had to be rushed to the emergency room. After so many years, my family finally got the answers we were searching for. My mother had breast cancer and she had to have her left breast removed. I never thought I would have to care for my mom. For months I looked after her, showered her, cooked for her, and more. This was the first time in my life I saw someone I loved dying right In front of my eyes. Those moments forever influenced my life decisions. Being the sole caretaker of my mother I often thought maybe if I did something different, given her more medicine, or cooked better food she would be back to her old self. One day I told her how I felt and she said that she wouldn’t even be here if it wasn’t for me. That completely changed my mindset, although I had to go through this horrible experience, I helped someone heal. I was able to change someone’s life by caring for them. I saw the impact of being a caring person. I could heal with my words, my hands, and my love. I never thought that having a simple thing such as love could change someone’s life. As I got older and started to experience my health issues I realized many doctors ignored my symptoms and many doctors would not try to help me. I too suffered a similar fate to what my mother did. I realized that I wanted to try and change the way African Americans were treated when it came to health care. I am now 17 years old and will pursue a career In pediatric nursing. Helping others feel better is the reason I want to be a nurse. My mom as well as my own experiences with healthcare has inspired me to help others. I want to change someone’s life like how I changed my mother's life. I will make a difference by creating a space where African Americans can feel heard and get the health care we deserve. I would’ve never thought such a dreadful encounter with cancer would change my heart for the better.

Madison Maxey 10-10-2023 Have you ever felt like you couldn't achieve and accomplish anything no matter how easy it may be, no matter how hard you worked? That’s how playing volleyball made me feel. I was in eighth grade and it was my third year playing volleyball. To some people, three years may be long enough for you to advance in a sport, but for some reason, I wasn't. I was stuck at the same mediocre level for years and so many coaches and teammates doubted my ability to advance. I felt as if I wasn’t getting better at a sport I loved very much. No matter how much I practiced I wasn’t advancing in volleyball. Soon I slowly started to lose the love I once had for the sport, I found myself dreading going to volleyball practice. I hated how it made me feel, I felt inadequate compared to every other player. They were all advanced and playing at a high ranking level yet I was still stuck in the same place. The week before tryouts I received an email stating that the school would be out until further notice due to COVID. I didn't realize that “further notice” would be two years. I was devastated, all of the hard work I put in was useless. At least that's what I thought I spent most of the quarantine doing absolutely nothing. I didn't even pick up a volleyball or even watch volleyball, but one day that all changed. My cousin Marianna came to live with my family. Marianna was a sophomore in high school and one of the best volleyball players I knew. Every morning no matter if it was raining or freezing outside, she went out and practiced volleyball. I was so jealous, she had the skill that I worked so hard for, and in my eyes, it wasn't fair. I couldn't comprehend how she was so good and I wasn't. After a couple of weeks, she invited me to come practice with her, but I declined her offer. I told her there was no point because all of my hard work would go to waste. She looked at me baffled and she said “Hard work always pays off”. She explained to me that she didn't advance in volleyball by giving up whenever things got hard. It took her years to excel in volleyball. Hearing this changed my perspective on volleyball. I started practicing with her every day and there were many times I wanted to give up, but I persevered, and soon I saw the results. By the time quarantine was over it was my tenth-grade year of high school. When it was time for volleyball tryouts I was very anxious, I was sweating from head to toe. Praying that I was finally at the level I needed to be, hoping that I could finally prove my coaches and teammates wrong. And I did just that not only did I make the team but I was a starter too. By the end of the season, I surpassed my fellow teammates and I got the Player of the Year award. Finally, all of my hard work paid off volleyball has taught me to never give up on something I love and that hard work always pays off. Now I am a senior in high school, still playing volleyball and I plan to go to school to become a pediatric nurse practitioner. As I make my transition to college, I'll always remember to work hard and never give up on my dreams.

Madison Maxey The day my mother was diagnosed with cancer my life changed completely. I was only ten years old and barely had an understanding of what was happening to my mother. My mom was diagnosed with breast cancer on March 2nd, 2017. My mother unfortunately didn’t know she had breast cancer for years so she never sought treatment. She had to have her left breast removed. I never thought I would have to care for my mom. For months I looked after her, showered her, cooked for her, and more. This was the first time in my life I saw someone I loved dying right In front of my eyes. Those moments forever influenced my life decisions. I slowly became distant from everyone, my family and friends, I didn’t want to experience pain like that again. I was hurt and confused about why this would happen to my mother but soon I would realize that experience changed me, my mindset, and my heart for the better. During the time I spent taking care of my mother, I learned how to be selfless, I learned how to be compassionate, and I experienced what unconditional love was. No matter what I had to do for my mother I did it because I loved her. Although I didn’t have any major health issues seeing how sick my mother was often made me worry about my health “If my mom had it I might have it too” That thought often ran through my head. Seeing my mother battle this disease I couldn’t even imagine if I had to battle it too. But soon all of my worries perished. Although I lost all hope my mom started to get better. She started moving more and her health gradually improved. My mother made a full recovery but she was never the same after cancer. I would often blame myself for my mother's health. I thought maybe if I did something different, given her more medicine, or cooked better food she would be back to her old self. One day I told her how I felt and she said that she wouldn’t even be here if it wasn’t for me. That completely changed my mindset, although I had to go through this horrible experience, I helped someone heal. I was able to change someone’s life by caring for them. I saw the impact of being a caring person. I could heal with my words, my hands, and my love. I never thought that having a simple thing such as love could change someone’s life. That is why I want to be a nurse. I want to heal people like how I helped heal my mother. I am 16 and will be pursuing a career In pediatric nursing. I've spent most of my life caring for people. I live with my grandparents now and I help care for them. I also have a 2-year-old niece that I love to take care of. I enjoy volunteering in nursing homes as well as nurseries at my church and other places. Helping others feel better is the reason I want to be a nurse. I want to change someone’s life like how I changed my mom's life. I would’ve never thought such a dreadful encounter with cancer would change my heart for the better.