Growing up in Kansas City, my life seemed ideal with achievements in both academics and athletics as a straight-A student and a 1st Team All State athlete. However, beneath the surface, I struggled with mental health challenges from a young age, seeing a psychologist for the first time in second grade and continuing to fight those battles through high school.

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In college, I continued to excel academically and became a sponsored CrossFit athlete and competitive weightlifter, but everything changed when I faced serious health issues. Alone in the hospital, on death's doorstep, I made a decision: if these were my last hours, I would keep my mind where my feet are, enjoy every moment, and make the most of the situation, regardless of my physical state. For the first time in my life, I experienced complete clarity—no stress, no fear—just pure freedom, as if I had nothing left to lose.

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Looking back, I realize much of my suffering could have been eased had I been vulnerable and asked for help. I missed out on so much because I didn’t know how to make adversity work for me instead of against me. Despite this, I persevered through every obstacle, choosing to overcome each day. Now, I want to inspire and teach our youth to do the same.