Hispanic Dreams, Heritage, and Healing: A New Mexico Boy's Path to Nursing Inspiration

My life's journey, set against the breathtaking landscapes of Northern New Mexico, is a testament to the boundless power of resilience and determination. Raised by my mother in the shadow of my father's death at the age of three, I learned from a young age that dreams are not just meant to be cherished but pursued with unwavering resolve.

In the heart of our close-knit community, my elementary and high school teachers recognized my potential, becoming beacons of inspiration. Their unwavering support, even within the humble confines of our rural high school, was the fuel that stoked the fires of my ambition.

My Hispanic heritage, faith in God, and family are deeply woven into the fabric of who I am and played an instrumental role in shaping my character. The stories passed down by my great-grandmother, echoing tales of our ancestors' indomitable spirit, and the indelible impression left by my great-aunt instilled within me a profound sense of duty to my community.

My educational journey led me to Purdue University, where the prospect of a career in medicine beckoned with hope and excitement. Yet, life often unfolds in ways we least expect. During my nursing studies at Purdue, I crossed paths with Misty, a fellow student whose presence would transform my life. Amid the challenges of nursing school, our love story blossomed, and after graduation, we stood hand in hand as we embarked on the adventure of marriage, reinforcing our commitment to each other.

But destiny had other plans. The world changed with 9/11, and I felt a deep-seated calling to serve my country. The United States Air Force became my new path, and I eagerly embraced the opportunity to make a profound impact.

During the tumultuous deployment of Operation Iraqi Freedom, I was entrusted with the monumental responsibility of helping safely bring injured service members back to the United States. The weight of this duty was crushing, and the intimidation of being a new nurse in the Air Force was a constant companion. Lives depended on my actions, and the stakes could not have been higher.

In those perilous moments, I confronted the harsh realities of war, where courage was summoned from the deepest recesses of my being. Fear was ever-present, but it was matched by an unyielding resolve to rise to the occasion.

My wife was and has always remained my unwavering source of support and fortified my spirit. Her faith in me was an unbreakable bond, sustaining me during the darkest hours. My Hispanic heritage, with its core values of resilience and community, provided the compass that guided me through the most challenging times.

Then, in 2013, a profound change occurred with the birth of our son. His arrival illuminated our lives with an unparalleled depth of joy and responsibility. Parenthood reshaped our perspective, imbuing us with a profound commitment to creating a better world, not just for our son but for all children.

In 2020 returning to Purdue University as faculty in the School of Nursing was a dream realized. My Hispanic heritage, grounded in principles of family and community, has informed my role as an educator. I aspire to instill in my students not just clinical proficiency but also the compassion and dedication that parenthood has bestowed upon me.

I hope my story becomes a radiant beacon of hope for other Hispanics, encouraging them to dream boldly and act with unwavering determination. It is a testament to the triumph of the human spirit over adversity, the realization of dreams, and the conquering of formidable challenges through indomitable will and self-belief.

As my journey continues, I aspire to inspire the next generation to reach for the stars, embrace their heritage, and etch their stories of triumph. Our Hispanic heritage is a wellspring of strength and wisdom, guiding us to achieve greatness and uplift those around us, regardless of the formidable obstacles we may encounter.

"My identity is a superpower - not an obstacle" - America Ferrera