Sometimes, life shifts in an instant, and the things that once felt steady suddenly feel out of reach. One moment I was sprinting down the soccer field, completely in my element. The next, I was on the ground with a torn ACL and meniscus, my season and sense of identity suddenly gone. It was my passion, my friends, and my way to relieve stress. I was forced to face not only the physical pain, but also the emotional and mental toll of recovery. Reflecting on my injury, the anxiety of surgery, and the challenges of recovery, I now realize that healing is not one-dimensional. It is a process that demands attention to the body, mind, and spirit. The aftermath of my injury brought to light the multilayered nature of healing. Beyond the physical pain and limitations, I struggled with mobility, independence, and mental health. Simple tasks I once took for granted became daily obstacles. Getting out of bed, taking a shower, or walking up stairs all became sources of frustration. I was no longer able to participate in simple activities that gave me joy like sitting with my friends at the lunch table in the school cafeteria, which affected my emotional well-being. I learned firsthand how deeply connected the physical and emotional aspects of healing truly are. During this time, I leaned on the support of my family and friends. My parents helped me shower when I couldn’t do it alone. My brother drove me to school and physical therapy, always dropping me off at the door to spare me the extra steps. My grandmother reminded me to ice my knee and checked in with me regularly. My friends came over to play video games and offer me moments of laughter and escape. I will always be thankful for how they cared and helped carry me through such a difficult period. While recovering, I also found purpose in helping others. I began volunteering with Special Stars and Future Firebirds, two programs where I coached children with special needs through soccer drills, basketball fun, and exercises. Even though I could not play myself, I found fulfillment in supporting them. Seeing their joy and determination reminded me that sports are about more than performance. They are about growth, inclusion, and connection. Looking back, my injury was not just a physical limitation and mental test but it was a chance for me to grow in resilience, empathy, and kindness. These small acts of kindness have strengthened my sense of purpose. They have shown me that, no matter what challenges I face, I have the power to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. That is the most valuable lesson of all. Now, I prioritize my well-being across all areas of life. I know that strength includes asking for help, supporting others, and staying hopeful through setbacks. These lessons will stay with me as I move forward into school, work, and beyond. I plan to pursue a career in law with a focus on disability advocacy, working to ensure that all individuals, regardless of ability, are treated with dignity and have equal access to opportunities. I want to support others mental health and growth.

When my brother Jackson entered the world, he was already leaving it. His heart beat for only a few minutes, yet those brief moments altered the course of my life. Jackson was born with multiple brain defects, and although he never had the chance to grow, his life left me with a purpose. My youngest brother Jackson passed away a few years ago. Until October 13, 2015, I had never experienced or understood grief. That morning, we woke up early to go to the hospital, but instead of the excitement of meeting my brother, I was filled with worry and nerves. Jackson’s little life had not developed as it should, and though it was time to meet him, we already knew the heartbreak that awaited. The grief we felt wasn’t just about his passing, it stretched into the past and the future. We mourned not only his final breath but also the months leading up to that moment when we were told he wouldn’t develop properly. Along with that came the painful realization that all our dreams of park days, board games, and birthday celebrations would never come to be. It was an unbelievably hard day for me and my family. Although our time with him was brief it was full of love. Love for Jackson and also love for each other, from the comforting hug of my parents, to the support of my grandparents, and friends' condolence cards. In the embrace of those who cared for me, I found not only comfort but also the courage to continue forward. Although the pain is still present, all of these relationships helped me heal during the bereavement process. I want to be that love and comfort when others need support. Jackson's brief life instilled a passion for advocating for individuals with disabilities. Witnessing the challenges they face has ignited my desire to ensure all voices are heard and represented. I find meaning by volunteering with youth in programs like Special Stars and Create for Kids, which transformed my perspective on resilience and the importance of service. Special Stars engages children with special needs in developing soccer skills. I coached them through drills, offering guidance and encouragement. Watching these children experience the joy of learning new skills despite their challenges is humbling. I also enjoy thinking critically and constructing solid arguments, a skill I am working on in school. This passion aligns seamlessly with a career in law, where the ability to present clear, persuasive cases is crucial. I hope to use this skill to uplift and protect others. I plan to pursue a law degree, focusing on public interest law or civil rights, empowering myself with the knowledge to navigate and advocate for those who cannot advocate for themselves. I will apply for internships and volunteer opportunities that provide practical experience in legal advocacy, especially in supporting children and families facing challenges. My choice to pursue a career in government and law is personal. I hope to challenge injustices, ensuring fairness, especially those facing the greatest challenges. Jackson’s memory and the lessons I’ve learned through Special Stars and other volunteer experiences inspire me to fight for a world where every child can thrive.