One Saturday in October, when I was 12 years old, I had a seizure and I was rushed to Shands Hospital . That’s when I found out I had a brain tumor and was told I could have been born with it because of the large size of the tumor. I took radiation and Chemotherapy, which lasted for about three, or four years, but the tumor came back on September 1st of 2006. During those hard times I had my mom and my big brother, Chris at my side. They were both my angels, but a few months ago on February 19, one of my angels passed away, my mother. Due to the loss of my mother, I almost didn’t go to my graduation. Inside, I felt I couldn’t make it without her, but I knew my mom would want me to go and I graduated in the class of 2007.
Since my parents were divorced when I was about 5 years old, my dad works for the navy and lives in Japan . My brother and I live alone now and everyday we struggle with paying bills, making dinner, keeping the house clean, and just keeping things the way they were when mom was here. Everyday I pray that mom is ok up there in heaven and remember all the good times we had together.
Having money available from The Nicki Leach Foundation would help me so much. For as long as I can remember I have wanted to go to college to work with animals and with money from your foundation, it will help me pay for college, and help me start a new life.
Thank you so much for the opportunity of making my dream come true again.
Sincerely,
Carisa