Caterina portrays the gritty character of Amelia Shepherd on the hit TV show "Grey's Anatomy." Her passion for her job and the kindness she freely gives is undeniably astounding. The amount of joy this sweet, sweet human has brought to me over the years is unmeasurable. She deserves all the love the world has to offer.

1. Her never-ending encouragement and love

Being able to find hope in a world full of cruelness and hatred is something that's hard to attain. She gives me the kind of positive light I'm always looking for.

2. Her sense of humor

Kelly, her amazing co-worker, was asked who tells the best jokes. It has been said by many that Caterina is always the one spilling out jokes on set, whether they're dirty or quirky.

3. Her desire to give back

Caterina (far right) volunteers at the homeless shelter her dad runs. In her "Inspire Toronto" speech, she said giving back was always apart of her childhood no matter how little her and her family had. And still today it is her choice. That's something to be proud of.

4. Her work ethic

Throughout her college years, she would always turn to a new TV show called "Grey's Anatomy." She even attended a six-week medical course because she thought she wanted to become a doctor; however, she realized she wanted to be on the show instead. Little did she know her dream would come true. She truly cares about giving her characters their own unique voice, as well as her own.

5. Her boundless heart

She goes where the love is, and she believes there is good in everyone you come across. She has taught me to look at life with a different perspective.

6. Her personality

As noted before, she has such an eccentric personality. Everyone is drawn to her because she is constantly spreading wisdom, love, and whimsy.

7. Her beauty

There's something about her that reminds you of the gentle waves crashing onto the sand. She leaves an ever-glowing light wherever she goes.

8. Her forgetfulness

I swear she forgets she is famous. There are so many people who are in awe of solely who she is, and she is an outstanding actress. And she doesn't even know.

9. Her smile

This one instantaneously makes your lips curl upward. Her essence marks a sense of pure, well-being.

10. Her influence

Gaining so much insight on always being open with warm arms to everyone from someone I don't know is difficult to comprehend. We all have one person in our life that helps shape who we are and what we become. She has encouraged me to push the boundaries on my usual routine, and to step out of my comfort zone. She taught me to be my own person.

11. This one is for her

Caterina, thank you for helping me ensure myself that I am important. Thank you for telling me to go where the love is, and to put all my effort into my ambitions and passions. Your soul is one of a kind, and I and so many others are beyond grateful you have showed it to us.

Happy {early} birthday. I hope this new trip around the sun brings peace and love to you. Thank you.