The Dream of Law School

Graduating from law school was a dream I held close to my heart. I was on track to earn my degree from the Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law in Phoenix, Arizona. The thought of becoming a lawyer filled me with excitement and anticipation. I envisioned myself advocating for justice, standing up for those who couldn't stand up for themselves, and making a meaningful impact on the world. I wanted to work for the ACLU or Innocent Project, something like that in which I would stand up for people. 

Life, however, had other plans. Before I could get my graduation cap and gown from law school, I experienced a life-altering event. A stroke, caused by an arteriovenous malformation (AVM) in my brain's thalamus, changed the course of my life. The thalamus, a small yet crucial part of the brain, is involved in processing sensory and motor signals and regulating consciousness. My AVM—a tangle of abnormal blood vessels—posed a serious threat, and the stroke was a stark reminder of its presence.

The medical journey that followed was tough and tiring. A craniotomy, a major surgical procedure to remove part of the AVM, was performed. Although the surgery was successful in removing 75% of the arteriovenous malformation, the remaining portion was still there. To address this, I underwent gamma knife radiosurgery, a precise and targeted treatment designed to eradicate the remaining AVM. The hope is that this procedure will eventually eliminate the residual malformation, and if not, I will try having the gamma knife again! 

The excitement I once felt about law school was replaced with a whirlwind of medical appointments, therapy, and recovery. The rigorous demands of law school were now beyond my reach as I focused on healing and regaining my strength. It was a difficult realization: I wouldn't be graduating this month as I had planned. The path I had worked so hard to forge was now uncertain and fraught with unexpected detours.

The resilience I cultivated through this experience became a source of strength. I realized that my journey, though altered, was not over. The determination that drove me to pursue law school was the same determination that would guide me through recovery.

This journey has given me a new perspective on life and my aspirations. While I may not be graduating this month, the experience has deepened my understanding of resilience, patience, and the importance of health. It has also reinforced my commitment to my goals. While I no longer aspire to go to law school, I now approach life with a newfound appreciation for the unpredictability of life.

As I continue to recover, I remain hopeful. The medical treatments, including the gamma knife procedure, hold the promise of a future where the AVM is no longer a threat - I find out this fall if it worked. I am surrounded by a supportive network of family, friends, and medical professionals who encourage me every step of the way. Especially my Mom, who has been my rock throughout all of this. If you know my Mom, you know how much of a badass she is and how much she advocated for me throughout this entire thing. 

Throughout this journey, I have come to embody the badass warrior. My disabilities and medical challenges do not define me; instead, they highlight my resilience and capacity for growth. I am determined to reclaim my dream of becoming a lawyer in a different way, knowing that my unique experiences will enrich my perspective and drive my passion for justice even further.

To anyone facing similar challenges, know that your dreams are not lost, only transformed. The path may be different than you envisioned, but it can still lead to fulfillment and success. Embrace your journey, with all its unexpected turns, and continue to strive towards your goals with determination and hope.

While I may not be graduating this month, my journey is far from over. The experiences I've faced have strengthened my resolve and deepened my appreciation for life's unpredictable nature. I look forward to the day when I can once again pursue my education, armed with the resilience and wisdom gained from this chapter of my life. Until then, I will continue to fight, heal, and move forward, knowing that the badass warrior within me will guide the way.