Growing up in Nogales, Arizona was never dull. As the oldest of three children, I had two younger brothers who kept me on my toes. Our town may have been small, but there was always something happening, whether it was a family outing, a sports event, or just hanging out with my siblings. Despite everything we had going on, I found solace in school and reading. Learning new things was my escape, which has followed me throughout my life.

Interestingly, my journey also led me to a stint with the police department. This adventure began when I switched schools and met a girl who was involved in law enforcement activities. Inspired by her, I joined the Nogales Police Explorers program and stayed with it for two or three years. It was an unexpected twist in my life, one that added another layer to my varied experiences.

Being a border town, Nogales had its unique dynamics. Crossing the border into Mexico to visit the mall or other places was a common activity. It wasn’t until I moved to Tucson that I realized how special this easy access was to another country. Living in a border town shaped my perspective and experiences in ways I only fully appreciated after leaving.

Finding My Calling in Healthcare

The influence of my family, particularly my grandpa and uncle, who were doctors, guided me toward the healthcare field. In high school, I participated in a family caregiver program, which solidified my interest in medicine. Although I initially stepped away from the health field, I found myself drawn back, realizing that my true happiness lay in helping others.

I’ve been working at Mountain Park Health Center for a year now, and it’s been a period of significant personal and professional growth. My daily routine involves setting up informational tables, ensuring free women’s hygiene products are available in the lobby of our Gateway Clinic, preparing for our nutrition classes and assisting our registered dietitians with their schedules. The sense of community and the opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives make this job fulfilling.

Promoting Community Health

At Mountain Park, we strive to create a welcoming environment for everyone. We offer various classes on nutrition and diabetes awareness, aiming to educate and support our community. Personally, health education is crucial. Attending these classes has been beneficial not just for our patients, but for me as well. Implementing what I’ve learned has improved my own health, and I hope others can benefit similarly. What drives me every day

is knowing that my efforts can positively impact someone’s life. Our food distribution events, for instance, are incredibly motivating, as they allow me to see firsthand the difference we’re making.