Life hasn't exactly been easy for me. Throughout the past almost twenty one years, I have battled health issues, deaths in the family, and mental disorders. However, while these times were the worst times I have had in my life, I am thankful for them. Why? Because without them I would be nowhere close to who I am today.

I'm thankful for my health issues.

My health issues turned me into a strong person, physically. They led to me have a high pain tolerance, and they also taught me how to push through things even when I do not want to.

Battling anxiety and depression has turned me into a strong person, mentally. They also taught me how to be more independent and eventually how to conquer my own demons. What's more empowering than that?

Seeing my dad battle cancer made me want to pursue the medical field. While I visited him at various hospitals, I saw how the nurses and doctors interacted with him, and how compassionate most of them were. After seeing this, I knew I wanted to be in the medical field, but I didn't know exactly which position. However, I knew I wanted to try to help others feel better in one way or another.

Having my dad pass away taught me various lessons. This tragedy taught me that life is too short to have regrets, and to go after what I want before it is too late. It has also made more understanding. When people go through losses, I now have a deeper understanding of their pain and have a personal experience that the person can relate to.

During my first semester at Michigan State, I had more health issues that led me to leave Michigan State and to start attending Oakland University. Although I really liked Michigan State and was super sad to leave, I am now very happy with where I am at and what I doing. They say things happen for a reason, and I am starting to believe it.

All of these struggles shaped me into the person I am today, and for that, I will forever be grateful. Maybe you too can start being grateful for the things you have gone through.

All my love,

Kamille