I was born in Oklahoma, but raised in a traditional Texan family- big, loud, and always exciting. If you listen carefully enough, you'll detect it in a few accented words. As the eldest of four, I quickly learned how important family is and more about cartoons than I should. I lived almost my entire life in Houston, until I moved to Austin for school and what a mind-opening move that was.

I'm currently a junior at UT, majoring in biology with a minor in medical ethics. I plan to go to dental school in fall 2009 and I can't wait! Yah, dentistry and yes, I do think teeth are awesome!

Beyond Texas 4000 and school, I'm usually spending my time...involving myself in as much community service I can (my mom got me hooked on this), walking through the maze to campus everyday and exploring the endless supply of attractions in Austin.

I know only one cancer survivor. I need both hands to count the many loved ones that have fallen to this debilitating disease.

It is a harsh reality that cancer can effect anyone, of any age, at any time. I know that there is a cure for most, if not all cancers, waiting to be discovered and I refuse to accept that cancer is far too superior for us to find it.

Cancer has proven to be an unfortunately frequent and ominous threat within my circle of family and friends. The lives of past, current, and future cancer patients, as well as the lives of their equally affected loved ones , are completely dependent upon crucial cancer research. Without research, the hope to one day finding a cure is eliminated.

What makes Texas 4000 stand out is that not only does it promote the progression of cancer research, it also promotes persistent determination and inspiration to help humanity in all aspects of health care. This is why I am so honored to be a part of the Texas 4000 team and so excited to experience first hand the impact that the 2008 team will make in eradicating cancer.