My name is Stephanie, and my journey to medicine has been shaped by love, loss, faith, and the people who have changed my life. At 36, I am continuing medical school at the International University of the Health Sciences while working as a per diem registered nurse. My dream is to become an internal medicine physician specializing in palliative and hospice care. My father was my greatest inspiration. When his ALS progressed, I stepped away from medical school because I needed to be by his side. I wanted to understand what he was going through, advocate for him, and make sure he never felt alone until he passed away on February 19, 2026. When he could no longer speak, I became his voice. I sat with him through ICU stays and hospitalizations, learning to communicate as he spelled out words letter by letter. He taught me that the best medicine we can give someone is our presence. My father believed in me before I believed in myself. His words, “Whatever happens, we deal with it,” and my faith in God continue to carry me forward. I keep showing up because this is more than a dream, it is my purpose. This scholarship would help me continue becoming the physician I hope to be: someone who brings compassion, comfort, and the reminder that no patient or family should ever feel alone when they need support the most.