My name is Rhianna Sell, and I’m a student living with Type 1 diabetes—a diagnosis I received at a young age that changed my life in more ways than I could have imagined. While it’s an invisible illness to most, it has shaped nearly every part of my day-to-day life, especially when it comes to my education and future career. Managing Type 1 diabetes isn’t something I can turn off. It’s a 24/7 responsibility that requires constant monitoring, planning, and decision-making. Every class period, every meal, every moment of stress or excitement can affect my blood sugar levels. I’ve had to leave in the middle of exams because of a low or high reading, and I’ve had to catch up on assignments while recovering from diabetic episodes that left me physically and emotionally drained. Despite these challenges, I’ve remained committed to my education. But the path hasn’t been easy—especially in my earlier school years. In elementary and middle school, I was bullied because of my condition. Students would remove my insulin pump during sports games, steal and stab me with my needles, and hide my medical devices like it was a joke. These were painful and humiliating experiences that made me question my place in school. Yet, I refused to let those moments define me. Instead, I found strength through advocacy and mentorship. I’ve since used my experience to mentor younger children with diabetes, helping them find confidence in themselves and learn how to manage their health with pride. I’ve volunteered at diabetes camps and shared my story with others to raise awareness and reduce the stigma around chronic illness. My experiences have inspired me to pursue a career in healthcare—specifically, in pediatric care or diabetes education. I want to be the kind of support I didn’t always have: someone who understands not just the medical side of this condition, but the emotional and social challenges too. I want to help kids and families feel empowered, not limited, by their diagnosis. Financially, the road to higher education has been difficult. Between medical supplies, routine doctor visits, and the cost of managing a chronic illness, my family and I face ongoing financial stress. Additional funds from this scholarship would help cover not only tuition and books, but also allow me to afford tools that make managing my condition easier in college—like continuous glucose monitors and insulin pump supplies, which are often expensive even with insurance. Receiving this scholarship would mean more than financial relief—it would be an investment in someone who refuses to give up. Despite the obstacles, I’ve remained committed to rising above and using my experiences to make a difference. I am determined to graduate, to give back, and to show that people with disabilities are capable of achieving great things—not in spite of their conditions, but because of the strength they gain from living with them every single day.

Living with Type 1 diabetes is not something I ever chose, but it’s shaped almost every aspect of who I am. It’s a condition that doesn’t rest—it follows me into the classroom, onto the basketball or volleyball court, through the night, and into every decision I make. While most people don’t think twice about eating lunch, taking a test, or playing a sport, I’ve had to learn to plan, calculate, and adapt constantly, just to stay safe. This daily battle has taught me resilience, discipline, and self-awareness that I don’t think I would’ve developed otherwise. Every day, I juggle numbers—carbohydrates, blood sugar levels, insulin doses—while trying to function like any other student. I’ve had to excuse myself from class due to low blood sugar, miss parts of tests, or sit out of practices because my body simply wasn’t cooperating. I wake up multiple times a night to check my levels and sometimes start the day already exhausted. And yet, I’ve never let it stop me. What’s made the journey even harder has been the bullying I faced growing up. In elementary and middle school, some kids targeted me because of my diabetes. They would rip off my insulin pump during basketball games, steal my needles, and even stab me with them as a cruel joke. My PDM, which controls my insulin delivery, was taken and hidden more than once. These weren’t just pranks—they were dangerous actions that put my health and safety at risk. At times, I felt completely alone, like no one truly understood what I was going through. But these experiences didn’t break me. They made me stronger and more determined to succeed—not in spite of my diabetes, but because of it. I’ve become an advocate for myself and others, especially young people navigating chronic conditions. I now mentor kids with Type 1, helping them find the confidence to live boldly and speak up for their needs. I’ve also volunteered at diabetes camps, building community and empowering others who’ve faced similar challenges. Academically, I’ve learned to be organized, focused, and incredibly driven. I don’t take opportunities for granted. I know what it’s like to fight just to have a “normal” day, so I’ve learned to work harder, study smarter, and manage my time with care. In college, I plan to pursue a degree in health sciences or psychology, with the long-term goal of becoming a pediatric diabetes educator or counselor. I want to support children not just medically, but emotionally—because I know firsthand how crucial that kind of support is. Living with a physical disability has shaped my mindset and my mission. It’s made me more empathetic, more determined, and more equipped to face the ups and downs of life. I hope to take what I’ve learned—about perseverance, compassion, and strength—and use it to create change for others who are still learning how to live powerfully with their diagnosis.

Living with Type 1 diabetes has shaped me in ways that go far beyond blood sugar checks and insulin doses. It has tested my physical and emotional limits, especially during my early years in elementary and middle school. While managing the condition itself was hard enough, what made it even more difficult was the bullying I endured—targeted, cruel, and relentless. From a young age, I was made to feel different. Some classmates didn’t understand what diabetes was and instead of asking questions or showing empathy, they chose to mock me, exclude me, or even harm me. I remember vividly how kids would rip off my insulin pump during basketball games, fully aware that I needed it not only to play but to stay safe. Without my pump, I risked low blood sugars and serious health complications—but they didn’t care. Sometimes it felt like they enjoyed seeing me scramble to stabilize myself afterward. It didn’t stop there. My personal diabetes manager (PDM), which controls my insulin delivery, was stolen more than once. Kids would take it, hide it, or throw it across the room like it was a toy. Some even went as far as stealing my needles—tools I relied on daily to manage my health—and stabbing me with them as a twisted form of harassment. These experiences weren’t just traumatic; they made me feel helpless, ashamed, and afraid to be myself. But I refused to let that define me. What those kids didn’t know was that living with diabetes had already taught me resilience—and their cruelty only made that strength grow. I became fierce in standing up for myself, in advocating for my health, and in refusing to let ignorance or hatred stop me from living fully. I worked closely with school staff, nurses, and my family to create safer spaces for myself and others who were different. I made sure my voice was heard, even when it shook. At the same time, I held onto kindness. I didn’t want my heart to harden. I didn’t want to become like the people who had hurt me. So I chose to turn my pain into purpose. I now mentor younger kids newly diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. I’ve volunteered at diabetes camps, where I help children not only manage their condition but also feel seen, valued, and powerful. I’ve learned that kindness isn’t weakness—it’s a conscious choice, a quiet strength. And I choose it every day. Carolyn embodied that same fierce and kind spirit. She showed us that you can face hardship with fire in your heart and still treat others with compassion. I carry her example with me in how I live, how I lead, and how I lift others up. My past, painful as it was, has made me who I am today: a fighter, an advocate, and above all, someone who believes in the power of kindness to change the world.

From a young age, my passion for an education in STEM has been deeply rooted in my personal experiences with type one diabetes. Living with this chronic condition has given me firsthand insight into the power of science and technology in transforming lives. From continuous glucose monitors to insulin pumps, advancements in medical technology have not only improved my quality of life but have also inspired me to contribute to the field of medicine through research, innovation, and patient care. Managing diabetes requires an understanding of biology, chemistry, and mathematics, which has fueled my love for STEM subjects. The intricate balance of blood glucose levels, insulin regulation, and metabolic processes has given me a unique appreciation for the human body and the science behind medical treatments. My personal experiences with diabetes management have driven my curiosity about endocrinology, biotechnology, and medical research, further solidifying my desire to pursue a career in pediatric medicine. Beyond my personal health, I have taken an active role in diabetes advocacy and mentorship. As a leader in the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) and a camp counselor for Diabetes Youth Services (DYS), I have worked to support children and families affected by diabetes. These experiences have reinforced my commitment to STEM, as I have seen how education and technological advancements can empower individuals to manage their conditions more effectively. My involvement in diabetes-related service projects has given me a deeper appreciation for the research and innovation that continue to improve treatment options and, one day, may lead to a cure. STEM is more than just a field of study for me—it represents hope, progress, and the opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of those with chronic illnesses. I want to contribute to medical advancements that improve diabetes management, making treatments more accessible and effective for all patients. My goal is to bridge the gap between scientific research and patient care, ensuring that future generations benefit from continued innovation in diabetes treatment and healthcare as a whole. Pursuing an education in STEM is not just a career path—it is a personal mission. My journey with diabetes has shaped my ambition to become a pediatrician, researcher, and advocate, using science and medicine to improve lives. With each step in my education, I am determined to contribute to the advancements that have helped me and so many others, ultimately working toward a future where diabetes no longer defines the lives of those affected by it.

Adversity has been a defining part of my journey, shaping me into the person I am today. Living with type one diabetes and growing up in a low-income household has presented challenges that required resilience, perseverance, and determination. Despite these hardships, I have refused to let my circumstances define me; instead, they have fueled my passion for service, leadership, and a career in medicine where I can support others facing adversity. When I was diagnosed with type one diabetes, my world changed overnight. Managing a chronic illness while balancing school, extracurricular activities, and financial limitations was overwhelming. The constant monitoring of blood sugar levels, insulin injections, and the looming worry of medical costs created an additional layer of stress. However, instead of allowing these obstacles to deter me, I turned my challenges into motivation. My experience with diabetes led me to advocate for others facing similar struggles. As a leader in the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) and a camp counselor for Diabetes Youth Services (DYS), I have worked to support and mentor children living with diabetes, ensuring they feel empowered rather than restricted by their condition. Financial hardship has also played a significant role in my life. Growing up in a household with limited resources meant sacrifices were often necessary. There were times when affording diabetes supplies, participating in extracurricular activities, or even considering higher education felt like distant dreams. However, rather than allowing financial constraints to discourage me, I used them as motivation to work harder. I sought out leadership opportunities in student organizations, became involved in my community, and committed myself to academic excellence. These efforts not only helped me grow as a leader but also allowed me to give back to others who faced similar struggles. Despite these challenges, I have remained steadfast in my goals. As Vice President and Treasurer of Student Council, a member of the Minority Aspiring Youth Meeting Project through Toledo Excel, and a coach for young athletes, I have dedicated my time to uplifting others. Volunteering and mentorship have been my way of turning hardship into hope, proving that resilience and determination can overcome even the most difficult circumstances. Like Dr. Jack Terry, I have faced adversity that could have limited my potential, but I chose to push forward. His story inspires me to continue striving for excellence, regardless of the obstacles in my path. My experiences with diabetes and financial struggle have taught me that adversity does not define a person—perseverance does. As I pursue higher education and a career in pediatric medicine, I will carry these lessons with me, using my journey to inspire and support others who face similar challenges. By turning adversity into opportunity, I hope to create a lasting impact on the world, just as Dr. Terry did.

Throughout high school, I have dedicated myself to service, leadership, and advocacy, shaping my vision for the future. My experiences in volunteerism and leadership have reinforced my commitment to making a difference, especially as I pursue a career in pediatric medicine. Through advocacy, mentorship, and hands-on service, I have sought to uplift others and create a lasting impact in my community. My passion for service began as a leader in the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF). Living with type one diabetes, I understand its challenges firsthand. Through JDRF and my role as a Diabetes Youth Services (DYS) camp counselor, I have mentored children and raised awareness for diabetes research. These experiences have strengthened my commitment to patient advocacy and healthcare equity, inspiring me to pursue a career where I can support and educate children facing medical challenges. Beyond diabetes advocacy, I have taken leadership roles in student organizations that focus on fostering inclusivity and academic support. As Vice President and Treasurer of Student Council, I worked to implement initiatives that benefited my peers, giving students a voice in their educational experience. My involvement in the Minority Aspiring Youth Meeting Project through Toledo Excel has allowed me to support underrepresented students in their academic pursuits, reinforcing my belief in the power of education and mentorship. Service extends beyond the classroom for me. As a member of the Lewis Avenue Baptist Church Teen Youth Group, I have participated in community outreach emphasizing compassion and unity. Volunteering at Fifth Third Field and the Huntington Center has further connected me with my community, teaching me the importance of contributing to the well-being of those around me. In my senior year, I took on new leadership roles in youth development. As an assistant coach for Riverside Middle School volleyball and a coach for UrbanVolley419’s 12s team, I have guided young athletes, teaching them discipline, teamwork, and perseverance. Coaching has reinforced my belief in mentorship and the impact that encouragement and guidance can have on young individuals. These roles have given me a deeper appreciation for the influence strong role models can have on youth, a lesson I will carry into my future medical career. Each of these experiences has shaped my desire to impact the world through healthcare, education, and advocacy. Leadership, resilience, and empathy will guide my journey as I continue advocating for diabetes research, mentoring youth, and serving my community. Through my future work as a pediatrician, I aim to provide not only medical care but also education and empowerment for children and families. My goal is to inspire and uplift others, ensuring my impact extends beyond my own experiences and into the lives of those I serve.

For me, being diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at a young age was a life-altering experience that shaped my identity and fueled my passion for STEM. Living with this chronic illness has given me multiple challenges growing up, such as having to check my blood sugar constantly, insulin injections, therapy, and the fear of complications, hospitalization trips, and more. Despite these challenges i've faced throughout my childhood, these experiences have given me a deep sense of responsibility, perseverance, and empathy. Rather than allowing my condition to define me, I have chosen to use it as motivation to pursue a career in medicine, specifically as a pediatrician, to help others facing similar struggles. Navigating life with Type 1 diabetes has given me firsthand insight into the healthcare system. I was surrounded by medical professionals and equipment at a young age, which I quickly had to learn. I have spent years learning about my condition, understanding the science behind insulin therapy, and advocating for my health. This personal journey has led me to my dream of receiving my bachelor's in biology of science and pre-medicine. As a future pediatrician, I want to support children who, like me, face medical challenges, and give their family the reassurance they need. I am passionate about giving back to the next generation. Growing up, I have benefited greatly from the support and guidance of those who came before me, and I believe it is my responsibility to do the same for others. By caring for children and supporting their health and well-being, I hope to make a positive impact on their lives and help shape a brighter future for the generations to come. My high school experience has further proven my interest in STEM and strengthened my skills for a career in medicine. Participating in National History Day and Poetry Out Loud competitions has helped me develop critical thinking, research, and communication skills, all of which are essential in the medical field for patient interactions, research, and advocacy. Additionally, my involvement in the Youth Advisory Board for Diabetes Youth Services has allowed me to engage in health advocacy and community education, while connecting with teen diabetics like me. We all feed off of each other and create a very educational and safe environment for families of children who have type 1 diabetes. Beyond academics, my leadership as Vice President of Student Council has given me the ability to organize, advocate, and lead initiatives that benefit my peers, skills that will be invaluable as I navigate medical school and the healthcare field. As a National Honor Society member, I have demonstrated my dedication to academic excellence, leadership, and service, all crucial attributes for a future pediatrician. Engaging in athletics such as volleyball and basketball has also provided me with insight into sports medicine and physical health, areas that are relevant to pediatrics and patient care. Receiving this scholarship would be instrumental in helping me achieve my dreams. Pursuing a degree in biology and later attending medical school comes with significant financial burdens. Coming from a low-income household, I know the strain that college expenses such as tuition, books, and fees can place on students like me. Without financial assistance, pursuing a college degree could become an overwhelming struggle. However, with this scholarship, I can prioritize my academic growth and invest in the resources necessary to thrive in my chosen field. More importantly, it would serve as a testament to my resilience and determination, reinforcing that my hardships have not been in vain but rather stepping stones toward making a meaningful difference in the world.

My name is Rhianna, and I am a senior at Toledo Early College High School, where I have been actively involved in a variety of academic and extracurricular activities. I am passionate about pursuing a career in medicine, specifically as a pediatrician, due to my love for science and helping others. Throughout high school, I have participated in the National Honors Society, been a member of the Youth Advisory Board for Diabetes Youth Services, and competed in National History Day, all of which have allowed me to grow as a student and as an individual. I am also a varsity athlete, playing basketball and volleyball, and I am the First Chair saxophonist in the advanced winds ensemble. These experiences have shaped my work ethic, leadership skills, and commitment to giving back to my community. Additionally, managing my type one diabetes has fueled my interest in healthcare and inspired me to pursue a career where I can provide care and support for children facing similar challenges. My journey toward becoming a pediatrician has been influenced by my personal experience with type one diabetes. Managing a chronic illness from a young age has taught me the importance of proper medical care, but it has also shown me how crucial it is to provide children with the emotional support they need to navigate their health challenges. I’ve learned that pediatric care isn’t just about treating physical symptoms—it’s about empowering children and their families to understand and manage their health in a way that supports their overall well-being. In addition to my personal experience, I’ve been actively involved in extracurricular activities that have allowed me to develop leadership skills and gain experience working with diverse groups. I have been a tutor to my peers, helping them succeed in their studies, and I’ve also volunteered with organizations that support children with diabetes. These experiences have taught me the value of collaboration, clear communication, and compassion—qualities that are essential in the medical field. Through my medical career, I plan to make a positive impact by focusing on pediatric care and health education. I aim to provide children with not only the medical treatment they need but also the tools to understand their bodies and stay healthy as they grow. I also want to work on improving access to healthcare in underserved communities, where children may face greater health disparities. By giving back to those who need it most, I hope to help create a healthier, more informed generation. In the long term, I want to be a voice for children’s health and work to ensure that every child, no matter their background, has access to the care they deserve. Through medicine, I hope to inspire and support the next generation in living healthier and more fulfilling lives.

My name is Rhianna Sell, and I am a senior at Toledo Early College High School, where I have been actively involved in a variety of academic and extracurricular activities. I am passionate about pursuing a career in medicine, specifically as a pediatrician, due to my love for science and helping others. Throughout high school, I have participated in the National Honors Society, been a member of the Youth Advisory Board for Diabetes Youth Services, and competed in National History Day, all of which have allowed me to grow as a student and as an individual. I am also a varsity athlete, playing basketball and volleyball, and I am the First Chair saxophonist in the advanced winds ensemble. These experiences have shaped my work ethic, leadership skills, and commitment to giving back to my community. Additionally, managing my type one diabetes has fueled my interest in healthcare and inspired me to pursue a career where I can provide care and support for children facing similar challenges. My journey toward becoming a pediatrician has been influenced by my personal experience with type one diabetes. Managing a chronic illness from a young age has taught me the importance of proper medical care, but it has also shown me how crucial it is to provide children with the emotional support they need to navigate their health challenges. I’ve learned that pediatric care isn’t just about treating physical symptoms it’s about empowering children and their families to understand and manage their health in a way that supports their overall well-being. In addition to my personal experience, I’ve been actively involved in extracurricular activities that have allowed me to develop leadership skills and gain experience working with diverse groups. I have been a tutor to my peers, helping them succeed in their studies, and I’ve also volunteered with organizations that support children with diabetes. These experiences have taught me the value of collaboration, clear communication, and compassion—qualities that are essential in the medical field. Through my medical career, I plan to make a positive impact by focusing on pediatric care and health education. I aim to provide children with not only the medical treatment they need but also the tools to understand their bodies and stay healthy as they grow. I also want to work on improving access to healthcare in underserved communities, where children may face greater health disparities. By giving back to those who need it most, I hope to help create a healthier, more informed generation. In the long term, I want to be a voice for children’s health and work to ensure that every child, no matter their background, has access to the care they deserve. Through medicine, I hope to inspire and support the next generation in living healthier and more fulfilling lives.

I am a senior at Toledo Early College High School, where I have dedicated myself to academic and extracurricular excellence, reflecting values similar to Kalia's own inspiring life. I am a National Honors Society member, First Chair saxophonist in Advanced Winds, Vice President of our Student Council, and an active volunteer for community initiatives like the Youth Advisory Board for Diabetes Youth Services. In addition to my academic achievements, I am a student-athlete who plays basketball and volleyball and plans to compete in track this spring. Balancing athletics and academics has taught me discipline, teamwork, and perseverance qualities I know Kalia exemplified in her own life. As a student with type one diabetes, I have also learned resilience, which fuels my determination to become a pediatrician. After high school, I plan to pursue a degree in biology at the University of Toledo, attend medical school, and eventually start my practice to serve children in need. I want to become a pediatrician because I am deeply passionate about helping children and making a positive impact on their lives. Growing up with type one diabetes has given me a personal understanding of the challenges children face when it comes to health, and it has motivated me to pursue a career where I can provide compassionate care to those who need it most. I love the idea of not only treating illness but also guiding children and their families in maintaining good health and preventing future problems. Becoming a pediatrician allows me to give back to the next generation, just as the previous generations have supported and guided me. Ultimately, I aspire to make a lasting difference in children’s lives by ensuring they receive the care and support they need to thrive. This scholarship would not only support my educational goals but also honor Kalia's legacy of perseverance, kindness, and determination. Her story inspires me to work harder and to approach every challenge with the same strength and grace she exemplified. Thank you for considering me for this opportunity to carry her legacy forward. Earning this scholarship would not only ease my financial burden coming from a low-income household but also serve this will also be a stepping stone toward my future. I am determined to make the most of this opportunity, work hard, and ultimately give back to my community as a dedicated healthcare professional, giving back to the next generation, and helping them succeed.

Music has been an important part of my high school experience, profoundly shaping who I am and how I approach life. Playing the saxophone, violin, ukulele, and guitar throughout my high school years has not only been a creative outlet but also a source of discipline, growth, and joy. Each instrument has offered a unique way to express myself, connect with others, and navigate the challenges of adolescence. As the First Chair saxophonist in advanced winds at my high school, I have learned the importance of leadership and teamwork. Leading my section required dedication, collaboration, and the ability to guide others toward a shared goal of excellence. These experiences taught me discipline and perseverance, qualities that extend beyond music and into my academics and personal life. The violin, ukulele, and guitar are all instruments I acquired and learned how to play during COVID-19, which would be my 8th grade year. This allowed me to explore a broader range of musical expression. Whether practicing classical pieces on the violin, strumming patterns on the ukulele, or popular pop pieces on the guitar, each instrument has given me a unique experience. They have been sources of comfort, creativity, and self-reflection, helping me unwind during stressful times and providing an emotional outlet when words were insufficient. I connect with my peers through my passion for music, as I play multiple instruments and understand its transformative power. I tutor 10 classmates, helping them improve their skills and develop a deeper appreciation for music. By sharing my knowledge and experiences, I aim to inspire them to embrace the same mindset and joy that music has brought into my life. Listening to music has been just as impactful. Whether motivating me during late-night study sessions or offering solace during difficult moments, music has been a constant companion. It has inspired me, shaped my moods, and given me the strength to keep pushing forward, no matter how tough life becomes. Music has taught me invaluable lessons about patience, commitment, and the importance of passion. It has shown me how to express myself, work hard, and find joy in even the smallest moments. As I prepare for college and my future career in healthcare, I know the lessons I’ve learned through music will continue to guide me. Music will always be a source of inspiration, a reminder of the value of dedication, and a beacon of creativity in my life.

After the COVID-19 pandemic, many students, particularly in underprivileged communities, faced significant setbacks in their education. The gap in learning, especially for younger students in grades kindergarten through 3rd grade, was stark, as remote learning often failed to address the unique challenges these students faced—whether it was limited access to technology, lack of a quiet space to study, or diminished support from families. Volunteering at a poverty-stricken elementary school, I had the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in closing that gap and supporting both students and teachers in overcoming the academic challenges created by the pandemic. The most direct impact was on the students themselves. Many children in this particular school had experienced disrupted or inadequate education during the pandemic. When I began volunteering, I focused on providing individualized academic support, especially in areas where children were most behind, such as English and math. By offering one-on-one tutoring sessions, I could help reinforce foundational skills that were critical for these young learners. Teachers in these under-resourced schools were already facing numerous challenges before COVID-19, but the pandemic added an overwhelming layer of stress and uncertainty. With students falling behind, many educators found themselves juggling the heavy burden of addressing the learning gap while maintaining their regular curriculum. They were often stretched thin and overwhelmed by the task of finding ways to support students who were academically and emotionally impacted by the crisis. By volunteering, I was able to alleviate some of that pressure. I worked closely with teachers to identify students who needed the most help and took over small groups or one-on-one tutoring sessions. This allowed the teachers to focus on the broader classroom needs and, importantly, reduced their concern about the students who were lagging behind. With me providing targeted support, teachers could return to focusing on the overall class, knowing that struggling students had the extra attention they needed to catch up. The work done in these early years—particularly in grades K-3—will have lasting benefits for both the students and the broader community. By addressing the education gap created by COVID-19, we’re not only helping children succeed academically but also setting them on a path toward future opportunities, better employment, and improved life outcomes. And in turn, this builds a more equitable society, where every child has the tools they need to succeed, regardless of their socioeconomic background. Ultimately, this volunteer experience not only allowed me to make a tangible difference in the lives of these children and teachers but also reinforced the importance of community involvement in supporting schools.

Being diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at the age of six didn’t just change my life; it turned every game, every practice, and every victory into a test of both my athleticism and my health. I started playing basketball at a young age, but being diabetic meant I had to carefully manage my blood sugar levels. This sometimes meant stepping away from practice or games to take insulin or check my levels. While the other kids were focused on the game, I was constantly singled out for needing to check my blood sugar or administer insulin. I was bullied for my diagnosis. Teammates would purposely try to detach my medical equipment, steal my supplies, and even make threats during practices and games. For nearly three years, I dealt with this in silence, not reaching out to an adult. The bullying made me realize that I couldn’t let others define who I was. I had to find the strength to rise above their words and not let them affect my self-worth. Eventually, I reached out to my school counselor for help, and my teammates were held accountable for their actions. This gave me a sense of relief, allowing me to focus more on my game. By the end of the season, I had earned the title of team captain and was awarded the best shooting guard honor. After basketball, I joined the volleyball team at a different school. My school didn’t offer sports, so I played at the high school closest to me. This brought its challenges. For one, my school day ended over an hour later than the school where I played, which meant I missed at least an hour of every practice. I would rush to the other school, change clothes, and try to catch up on conditioning before practice started. On top of that, I didn’t attend school with my teammates, and because they all knew each other, I often felt like the odd one out. Being named captain of the varsity volleyball team my senior year was an honor, but it came with added responsibility—especially in an environment where respect was hard to come by. My high school was behavior-focused, and my leadership was often undermined. My efforts to motivate and support the team were met with disrespect. Leading a team that didn’t respect me felt more like a burden than a privilege. My teammates viewed me as an "outsider," someone who didn’t belong. On top of that, I received little support from my coaches, which left me feeling isolated in my leadership role. At times, it felt like I wasn’t playing for the love of the game anymore. I was playing out of obligation, just trying to hold the team together despite the lack of support. My passion for the sport began to fade. However, despite all the challenges, playing sports at a different high school taught me valuable lessons about resilience, leadership, and the importance of self-worth. While my love for the sport did diminish during this time, the experience helped me grow as a person. I learned to stand firm in the face of adversity and navigate environments where I wasn’t always welcomed or understood. Being an outsider, both in my sport and on my team, forced me to develop the self-confidence and resilience that I carry with me today. Though my time as captain was difficult, it shaped who I am now, and I can look back on those experiences with a sense of gratitude for the lessons they taught me.