I grew up in Midland, Texas and now live in Austin to attend the University of Texas. I am majoring in Electrical Engineering with focuses in Biomedical Engineering and Pre-medical courses. As a 21 year old, I still find a world of challenges ahead of me and plan on studying abroad and going to graduate school. Along with the Texas 4000 for Cancer I am also part of the student organization VaNTH Student Leadership Council that furthers understanding of bioengineering. I am glad to be able to participate in a charity that really makes an impact. I have always wanted to help people with more than just donating used goods, and now I do it with my time and effort.

I spent the spring break of 2003 in New York visiting my friend at NYU. We had a great time going to Washington Square Park, the Chrysler Building, and other great attractions. We talked about the changes of college, old times, and our plans for the future. Before school started this year, he was diagnosed with cancer and has been going through very aggressive chemotherapy. I had heard of family friends and other people treating cancer, but the bed-side experience is different. He is getting through his chemotherapy well and we still have a good time talking about all the fun we had and our future plans. Cancer has been redefined in my mind, it is a disease that affects all; a threat for everyone from infants to the elderly, even people who are supposed to be having the best time of their lives in college.