05/24/2026
Today is my 49th birthday.
Four years ago, I experienced a life-altering moment that forever changed the way I view birthdays. Since then, they have become more than just another year older. They are milestones.
Another year of survival.
Another year of strength.
Another year of courage.
Another year of resilience.
I no longer take life, time, or purpose for granted.
Every morning I wake up grateful for another opportunity to live fully — to embrace the challenges, the victories, the lessons, and even the uncertainty that comes with growth. Professionally and personally, life continues to stretch and transform me, and I continue to rise to meet it.
Four years ago, I also began writing my memoir, From Fire to Freedom: A Memoir of Transformation, Renewal, and Resilience. Writing this deeply personal work forced me to reflect honestly on my life — the triumphs and achievements, but also the pain, setbacks, disappointments, and difficult seasons that shaped me.
What I discovered is this:
The fire did not destroy me.
It forged me.
Today, celebrating my birthday is not simply a celebration of age. It is a celebration of survival, healing, growth, faith, and purpose.
I am a survivor.
I am a warrior.
And I know there is still so much more ahead for me to accomplish, create, and become.
Above all, I thank God for walking beside me through both the triumphs and the trials — for carrying me during the moments when I felt weak, uncertain, or afraid, for not allowing doubt and fear to consume me, and for continuing to keep me hopeful, grounded, and aligned with His purpose for my life.
I feel blessed to have another year, another chapter, and another opportunity to continue walking in purpose.
I also want to take a moment to thank my family, friends, physician colleagues, mentors, and everyone who has supported me throughout this journey and continues to stand beside me. Your encouragement, kindness, and belief in me have meant more than words can express.
And to the graduates of 2026 — congratulations. May your future be bright, meaningful, and full of possibility. Do not allow fear, doubt, or setbacks to stop you from becoming everything you are destined to be.
And to my fellow Geminis — cheers to another year of health, happiness, growth, and new beginnings.
Here’s to 49. ❤️
