How can you grieve someone you've never met? I spent the Christmas of 2009 beside my mother's upside down hospital bed, admiring a small plastic tree decorated with ornaments from her nurses. Four-year-old me had been eagerly awaiting two little brothers, Gavin and Jayden. Both weighing merely one pound, only twenty three weeks old. Of course, I didn't understand at the time that babies can come into the world too soon, I was simply excited to be a big sister. I admired them through the glass of the NICU incubators, tiny bodies covered in tubes, wires, and stickers. I remember getting to hold them once, draped in a hospital gown. Cradling them in my arms, I realized how fragile they were. The amount of joy that filled me was unmatched. How lucky I was to have two little brothers? Unfortunately, that was the last time I got to hold Jayden. Jayden contracted H1N1, a type of influenza A. His premature immune system was nowhere near strong enough to fight off the virus. On March 31st, 2010, he stopped fighting. My dad told me once, the hardest thing he has ever had to do was to tell his four-year-old daughter that her little brother died. Some could argue I was too young to understand, too young to feel the pain, but I knew what happened. This has always caused an extreme feeling of guilt in my life. Some people lose their siblings after spending an entire childhood with them. For a long time, I felt unworthy of grieving the loss of my brother because of this. I would try to think- which is worse, losing someone after creating a million memories with them, or never even having the opportunity to create memories at all? As I got older, I stopped asking myself this. I realized that grief is valid no matter the situation and that it was never about me, it was about honoring Jayden. Despite my loss, I am incredibly lucky to have my brother, Gavin. I know that a piece of Jayden is always with us, in him. I plan to continue Jayden's legacy by becoming a nurse. I have had a passion for nursing since I was very young and I know I can carry him with me by healing others. I have even considered working in the NICU myself. Although it may be tough at first, I believe it would be an amazing tribute to him.

My name is Olivia Tennant, and I come from the little town of Core in West Virginia. Currently a senior at Clay-Battelle Middle/High School, I am simultaneously enrolled in Monongalia County Technical Education Center, participating in my school's inaugrual Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) program. My future plans include pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing at West Virginia University, ultimately aiming to work as a trauma nurse while pursuing further education to become a Nurse Practitioner. From a young age, my aspiration has been to become a nurse. Childhood memories involve playing with a pink, plastic stethoscope, listening to the hearts of stuffed animals. In elementary school, I discovered my passion for science was evident. I never truly fit in for this reason. While my friends watched Nickelodeon, I was consumed in YouTube videos on neurological processes and the endocrine system. In fifth grade, I received my first set of anatomy flashcards, sparking an obsession with creative mnemonic devices for memorizing body parts. For example, for the parietal bone of the skull, I imagined a parrot on someone's head. I also remember walking around school reciting vertebrae sections of the spine. I would bounce around the playground saying, "Cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacrum, coccyx" repeatedly. Only recently did I discover my interest in emergency medicine due to its fast-paced nature and spontaneity. Enrolling in the EMT class at my technical school was an instinctive choice, despite initial challenges and disorganization. Although I initially considered Medical Assisting, my intuition guided me towards the EMT program, a decision I now appreciate. Navigating through a somewhat disorganized beginning, my enthusiasm for the EMT program grew steadily. Despite being a quarter of the way through the program, I participated in a HOSA competition at the state level. Though I did not place, the experience was invaluable. Subsequently, I entered the SkillsUSA EMT competition, the first of its kind in West Virginia. Concurrently, I ran for State Office, a nerve-wracking yet exciting experience. Ultimately, I emerged as a State Officer and a gold medalist at the competition, later securing the 8th position at Nationals with a 95% accuracy. This year, I am set to compete in CPR and First Aid. Beyond the technical aspects, my desire to help people has been a driving force in my academic and professional pursuits. The intricate dance between science and compassion is a balance I aspire to strike in my future career. My competitions not only challenged my skills but reinforced my commitment to making a positive impact on individuals in their most vulnerable moments. As I look forward to joining West Virginia University for Nursing, my eagerness to contribute to the well-being of others remains a steadfast motivation. Embarking on the path to become a trauma nurse is not merely a career choice but a lifelong commitment to serving and aiding those in need. I am eager to continue making my town and loved ones proud as I embark on my journey to become a trauma nurse. The excitement for the next chapter in realizing my dream is palpable. With a commitment to providing compassionate care, I aim to contribute not only to the healing of individuals but also to the overall well-being of my community. Nursing, for me, is not just a profession; it's everything I've ever wanted.

Ever since I can remember, the desire to make a meaningful impact in the world has been the driving force behind my pursuit of a nursing degree as well as my strong love of science. Nursing, to me, represents more than a profession—it's a calling, a vocation rooted in compassion and a commitment to improving the lives of those in need. Nursing education equips individuals not only with the technical skills required for medical care but also with the empathetic touch needed to connect with patients on a personal level. One of the primary reasons I aspire to be a nurse is the unique opportunity it affords to contribute directly to the well-being of my community. In a world where health problems persist, nurses stand on the frontline, bridging gaps in access to quality care. By obtaining a nursing degree, I aim to be an advocate for health equity, ensuring that every individual, regardless of background or circumstance, receives the attention and care they deserve. My vision extends beyond the hospital walls. As a future nurse, I hope to actively engage in community outreach programs, bringing health education and preventive care to underserved populations. By fostering a culture of wellness, I aspire to contribute to the resilience and vitality of my community, empowering individuals to take charge of their health proactively. Furthermore, the nursing profession provides a platform to address not only physical but also mental health needs. Mental health awareness is a critical component of holistic care, and I envision playing a pivotal role in reducing the stigma surrounding mental health issues within my community. As an EMT student, I’ve come to understand the mental health crisis in healthcare. Through education and empathetic support, I hope to create an environment where individuals feel comfortable seeking help and where mental health is prioritized alongside physical well-being. I also plan to work in the ER. After I graduate, I will work as an EMT through college to gain experience. I fell in love with the fast-paced unpredictable nature of emergency medicine. I know it is going to be a toll on my emotional health, but I think I can handle it. I have been through a lot in my life and I think being there for someone’s worst day is rewarding enough to suffice. In conclusion, my decision to pursue a degree in nursing is fueled by a profound desire to make a positive impact on the lives of others and to fulfill my childhood dream. With a commitment to providing compassionate care, I aim to contribute not only to the healing of individuals but also to the overall well-being of my community. Nursing, for me, is not just a profession; it's a lifelong journey dedicated to service and everything I’ve ever wanted.

My name is Olivia Tennant, I'm 17, and I'm from a small town in West Virginia. As many people know, West Virginia has had a drug problem for a long time. According to the CDC, in 2020, 81.4 per every 100,000 residents died from an overdose in West Virginia. In 2021, about 1.783 million people were living in West Virginia. So you can imagine how deeply we are affected by this disorder. In 2018, West Virginia created a youth substance abuse prevention program called Game Changer. Game Changer is a student-led organization that works with schools and the community to encourage children to make healthy choices about alcohol, drugs, and other substances. It was recently implemented in a handful of schools. My small school of just 350 students (6-12) was the second school to take up this initiative. We started by gathering in our classrooms and watching a video called "One Pill Can Kill". The short film was about the growing fentanyl crisis and it included middle and high school students from around the state law enforcement, EMS, and even a former drug dealer. As someone studying to be an EMT, this made me realize I need to gain as much knowledge as I can about substance abuse, so I can make a difference. The video was more than informative and gave me a better sense of how serious this is, so when they allowed us to apply to be a Game Changer peer leader, I quickly took the opportunity. I ended up getting selected and I was very happy to be part of such a promising program. Following our admission, we signed a document and promised to not use any substances during our time as Game Changer peer leaders. We then met a former drug addict turned educator from Boston named Mr. G and he gave us a crash course on common drugs, peer pressure, false presumptions of "social norms", and a little pathophysiology of substance abuse. We also practiced skits to convey our messages to our middle school which we performed and then took the students' questions. We also opened our auditorium to our community and introduced ourselves and why we choose to not use chemicals. Then, we presented the “One Pill Can Kill” video. Our group also hosted an LSIC (Local School Improvement Council) meeting. Recently, we had a meeting with the two other schools involved and United States Senator, Joe Manchin at the Game Changer Headquarters in Fairmont, WV. This organization has been such an amazing experience and I'm so excited to see the growth and impact it's going to have on our state. I've already began educating others on substance abuse including our community, and middle school. We plan to talk to elementary schools as well. But I will continue to gain knowledge, educate others, and make a difference through my organization and my EMS journey. I understand that as a medical provider, substance abuse is a huge part of healthcare. My goal is to learn as much as I can and help people through medical treatment and advocacy against substance abuse.

Growing up in the heart of West Virginia has been a journey; it has shaped my worldview, instilled core values, and molded my identity in profound ways. To me, being a West Virginian is not just a matter of location; it is a rich tapestry of heritage, resilience, and community. West Virginia's landscape, with its gorgeous rolling hills and winding rivers, is not just a backdrop to my childhood memories; it symbolizes the resilience ingrained in the spirit of every West Virginian. Life in the Mountain State has taught me the importance of standing tall in the face of challenges, much like the beautiful trees that weather the winds atop our hills. The struggles faced by the state, economically and otherwise, have bred a community of individuals who know the value of hard work and determination. The close-knit communities scattered throughout the state have not only provided a sense of belonging but have also taught me the importance of loved ones and support. In a place where everyone knows your name (if not, your pap's for sure), the bonds forged are not just connections. This spirit has made me appreciate the significance of unity and the care we have for one another. While rooted in my West Virginian identity, I have come to understand that embracing it makes me feel a sense of identity. My small-town roots are what makes me, me. Though my accent gets made fun of and I can never seem to outrun the stereotypes, I'm proud of where I'm from. As I stand at the cusp of higher education, I carry with me the lessons learned from my West Virginian roots. The challenges I face as a West Virginian inspired me to pursue a path that goes beyond personal success to contribute to my state. Whether it be through community outreach, advocacy, or innovative problem-solving, my West Virginian perspective equips me with the tools to be a catalyst for positive change. In conclusion, being a West Virginian is not just a matter of where I was born; it is an identity woven with the threads of resilience, community, and a rich hometown culture. My experiences in West Virginia have not confined me; instead, they have provided a sturdy foundation upon which I can build a future and that embodies the values that define the spirit of the Mountain State. West Virginia will always be "wild and wonderful" to me.

The picture is dark and grainy, it was 2008. I was two years old, sitting almost frog-like in pink Disney princess pajamas. Wisps of dark brown hair fell in my big blue eyes, I looked as if I had been interrupted. I was holding a pink plastic stethoscope, auscultating my patient's abdomen. Yes, I believed I was listening to his heart, and yes, the patient was a Mickey Mouse stuffed animal, but I felt like a good nurse nonetheless. I guess even before I knew I wanted to go into Nursing, some part of me must have noticed it just felt right. My mother was a nurse, an exceptional one at that. People usually link my passion for Nursing to her. They say I must be "following in her footsteps" but I do not recall her talking to me about her job often. Looking back though, I have always had a love for science in general. Science came easy to me and I was eager to learn about anything related to it. The first science-related topic I can recall learning about in school was in kindergarten. Echolocation- I was completely fascinated. While everyone else was distracted by the cute catchy bat song, I yearned for more knowledge. I wanted to know how sound waves worked. I needed to know how the bats did it. The next memory that sticks out most from my childhood is from third grade. I made it my mission to memorize the entire periodic table of elements after I received flashcards for Christmas. He, Helium. B, Boron. Ca, Calcium. I would shove the cards in my family members' laps and beg them to help me study them. They did not understand why an eight-year-old would care so much about periodic elements, but it made me happy. At school, I was known as "the periodic table girl" for years. This knowledge would be of no use to me until my sophomore year Chemistry class, but it made me feel smart. Fast forward eight years, and I just got accepted into the first EMT program at a local technical school. I was now alternating high school and tech school every other day. I could have done Medical Assisting, but I didn't. I had an interest in Emergency Medicine and something told me I needed to be in that class instead. At first, EMS seemed way too different from Nursing for me and I was regretting my decision. Slowly though, I began to love it and got thrown into two EMT competitions at the state level. I felt unprepared. I was barely halfway through my program and it was still so new. My teacher still did not understand how she was going to run our class. I felt unprepared and I did not place in the first competition. I came home and studied harder and sure enough I won the first West Virginia SkillsUSA EMT competition and 8th at Nationals. This year, I was just informed that I was accepted into Nursing school at West Virginia University and I am ecstatic about pursuing a career that I have felt so passionate about since I was young. My dream of being a nurse is what pushes me to pursue higher education. I'm doing it for my future and my love of science, but more importantly, I'm doing it for the little girl in the picture, with the pink, plastic stethoscope.

"What are you doing?" my friend said as I flipped over a pack of cookies. I knew normal 10-year-olds didn't read nutrition facts while sitting at the cafeteria table. I found the saturated fat column and traced my tiny finger over to the number: 5g. My friend smiled when I handed her the cookies. "You don't want these?" she asked. I shook my head. "Is it because of that thing you have?" she questioned and I nodded. I knew normal 10-year-olds didn't even know the word 'hyperlipidemia', they didn't need to. Hyperlipidemia is an elevated level of lipids such as triglycerides and cholesterol in the bloodstream. This condition is linked to atherosclerosis (hardening of arteries caused by a buildup of plaque), stroke, and heart attack. In my case, it's familial (or genetic) and most members of my dad's side of the family have hyperlipidemia. 4 of these family members have had at least one heart attack and 3 of them have died of a heart attack under the age of 50. Normal cholesterol levels for a child are supposed to be under 100. Mine runs way beyond 200. I understood all of this at the innocent age of 9. With this frightening information came routine blood work, doctor appointments, new medicines, and various diets. What's far more painful than needle pokes is watching my father acts as a guinea pig. It seems like every month it's a new treatment, a new injection, or a new medicine that has very serious side effects. Not to mention the talks about possible scenarios, "what if"s, and "what to do"s if something bad happens to him. Despite my adversities, I work hard in school every day and I strive for a healthcare career. I'm currently in the first Emergency Medical Services program for high schoolers in West Virginia at my local technical school. I will be able to start working as an EMT right out of high school. My long-term goals are to study nursing and become a trauma nurse. I have always had a love for nursing as my mom is a registered nurse and emergency medicine is very exciting to me. I work well under pressure and in a fast-paced environment, so trauma is perfect for me. I continue to overcome not only the challenges this disease throws at me but normal life challenges. I thank the good Lord every morning that I wake up and can cherish every day with my family. Hyperlipidemia has created some hurdles in my life, but it has also allowed me to realize that time with loved ones is a gift. Soak it in while you can. Thank you.

The dream version of myself is a kind, hard-working, and knowledgeable trauma nurse that saves lives.

My name is Olivia Tennant, I'm 17, and I'm from a small town in West Virginia. As many people know, West Virginia has had a drug problem for a long time. According to the CDC, in 2020, 81.4 per every 100,000 residents died from an overdose in West Virginia. In 2021, about 1.783 million people were living in West Virginia. So you can imagine how deeply we are affected by this disorder. In 2018, West Virginia created a youth substance abuse prevention program called Game Changer. Game Changer is a student-led organization that works with schools and the community to encourage children to make healthy choices about alcohol, drugs, and other substances. It was recently implemented in a handful of schools. My small school of just 350 students (6-12) was the second school to take up this initiative. We started by gathering in our classrooms and watching a video called "One Pill Can Kill". The short film was about the growing fentanyl crisis and it included middle and high school students from around the state law enforcement, EMS, and even a former drug dealer. As someone studying to be an EMT, this made me realize I need to gain as much knowledge as I can about substance abuse, so I can make a difference. The video was more than informative and gave me a better sense of how serious this is, so when they allowed us to apply to be a Game Changer peer leader, I quickly took the opportunity. I ended up getting selected and I was very happy to be part of such a promising program. Following our admission, we signed a document and promised to not use any substances during our time as Game Changer peer leaders. We then met a former drug addict turned educator from Boston named Mr. G and he gave us a crash course on common drugs, peer pressure, false presumptions of "social norms", and a little pathophysiology of substance abuse. We also practiced skits to convey our messages to our middle school which we performed and then took the students' questions. We also opened our auditorium to our community and introduced ourselves and why we choose to not use chemicals. Then, we presented the “One Pill Can Kill” video. Our group also hosted an LSIC (Local School Improvement Council) meeting. Recently, we had a meeting with the two other schools involved and United States Senator, Joe Manchin at the Game Changer Headquarters in Fairmont, WV. This organization has been such an amazing experience and I'm so excited to see the growth and impact it's going to have on our state. I've already begun educating others on substance abuse including our community, and middle school. We plan to talk to elementary schools as well. But I will continue to gain knowledge, educate others, and make a difference through my organization and my EMS journey. I understand that as a medical provider, substance abuse is a huge part of healthcare. My goal is to learn as much as I can and help people through medical treatment and advocacy against substance abuse.