SW: The biggest challenge in writing for me is finding the time to write with no distractions.

SW: I admire my mother, Jessica. She has been through some traumatic events in her life. She found out she was pregnant with my brother around the same time she discovered her grandmother, Melba, had lung cancer. After the doctors did a biopsy of Melba’s lungs, the cancer spread everywhere. Two years later Melba passed away. After Melba passed away, my mother found out she was pregnant with me. Around the time I was born, she began to build a relationship with her mother, Tena. When my mother was six years old, she and her little brother, Otis, were placed in their grandparents' care, due to domestic violence and neglect. My mother forgave Tena and the two spent every day together for three years, even living in the same apartment complex. Unexpectedly, my mom found Tena dead in her apartment. Tena had an old blood clot in her heart, which led to unexpected heart failure. Now, my mom is facing her battle. She had a stroke back in 2021. My mother had underlying health issues and contracted COVID-19, which led to her developing a large blood clot in the middle of her brain. A craniotomy was performed to remove the clot. She is currently still fighting for her mobility. With her tenacity, she will one day walk again.

SW: I consider Amy M. Le, Tamara, and George Dragseth to be my mentors. They are amazing and are helping me through this journey called life. They keep me motivated, give great advice, and offer their love and support when I need it the most.