Personal Narrative-Neurofibromatosis Influenced My Life

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The story of a single mother who was willing to do anything for her children is what triggered it all. During my elementary years I accompanied my mom, an LPN, to her work as a home nurse. I was greeted by a loving mother who told me the story of her child, who was now left with extensive brain damage. Initially, I was confused when I confronted this child, as he was unresponsive to my attempts to communicate. However, my mom walked in the room and began to interact with him. The mere sound of hearing my mom’s voice would induce an uncontrollable smile and tensing in the child, expressing the joy of her company. This moment made me realize that there truly was life preserved in this child, by a relentless mother who was not willing to give …show more content…
My sophomore and junior year of college, I have been graciously able to accompany the Caribbean American Medical Educational Organization (CAMEO) on two trips providing medical care to Buff Bay, Jamaica. The amount of pathology that was seen during these trips is unforgettable. I encountered two patients with neurofibromatosis, a condition that one of our practitioners had only read about. The interactions with our patients were empowering, especially with an animated older gentleman who was there both years that I went. He was my first patient as I was working a station for reading glasses. My initial interaction with him led me to believe that he was illiterate; but after receiving a pair of glasses his face lit up with pure glee. He began to read as fluent as ever, and danced in his chair while thanking me. I cherish the moments such as this one that serve as a testament to what providing help to others can bring about, no matter how minuscule the task may seem. These impactful moments have encouraged me to continue my service in the years to …show more content…
I have grown to love expanding my knowledge base with each course along this path, and the challenge of reaching such a desirable goal entices me. I understand that life is unpredictable, and I have seen how stress may have affected my GPA and involvement on campus in the past. However, I learn every day how to balance my personal and professional life, and will not let anything steer me away from my ultimate goal of becoming a Physician. I desire to go to medical school to become the best doctor I can be, an empathetic and compassionate doctor who is dedicated to all patients and their loved ones. I will apply my expertise to continue serving in underserved populations. I also wish to use this as an opportunity to pay forward the gratitude I have for those who have invested in my life to make me the man I am

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