You don't choose the trials life throws at you, but you can choose your reaction to them. After dealing with a life full of constant hip pain, I finally got an answer. Going into my junior year of high school, I got diagnosed with hip dysplasia, and yes that's a common issue in dogs, I know! My life revolved around my love for dance and pom in high school, however my life also revolved around the pain I endured. I had to decide to give up what I loved most to get surgery. Going through surgery, I knew in the back of my mind that your passion for something can overpower any trial you endure. So, I couldn't wait to get back into my passion and I knew I'd do it somehow.

After being fully recovered from surgery, I decided to try out for the Michigan State Pom Team during my freshman year of college. I was rusty and had to remind my body what a fan kick felt like and how to properly land a toe touch gracefully. During tryouts, I noticed the competition I was up against: I was competing against seasoned pommers. But I realized that my devotion and spirit could allow me to keep up with the other girls.

The day I got the notification that I made the MSU Pom Team was an exciting and eye-opening day for me. I couldn't be more proud of myself for overcoming adversity with my hips and proving that I still had a skill I thought I lost. However, I was also mindful that I still had struggled with lingering pain. Even though I couldn't commit to the team in the end, knowing that I still had the talent in my body physically and in my mind mentally after a couple of years was a prideful time for me as a person.

My hip dysplasia still affects me to this day, but it has made me a stronger individual. I believe that if you look at every situation you go through with an optimistic mindset, you can more effectively deal with adversity. So, at the end of the day, I thank my damn hips.