04/23/2026
When I was young, people would often ask me, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” I would always say I wanted to be a teacher because I loved school. However, at the age of eight, I was diagnosed with Polycystic Kidney Disease, and at sixteen, I was diagnosed with Depression and Anxiety. Throughout elementary, middle, and high school, I faced questions from teachers and peers about how I would succeed in life despite my frequent absences due to my illnesses. These questions made me question my future until I didn’t see one for myself anymore.
At the age of 16, after receiving my diagnosis of Depression and Anxiety, I took the painful questions and hurtful remarks that had been directed at me and used them as motivation to create The Seen Project. I always wanted to change the world when I was little, I had a vision of me at a podium delivering a speech. Something that would inspire everyone to change their ways of thinking and to be kind to each other.
The Seen Project helped me understand my diagnosis and realize that being “sick” doesn’t limit someone’s ability to achieve success. In fact, it makes their achievements even more remarkable. It provided me with a sense of purpose and helped me see that I do have a future. Through The Seen Project, I discovered my passion for communications and marketing since I had the privilege of meeting the most remarkable people. I am deeply grateful for their support and the impact they have had on shaping me into the person I am today. However, my parents and sister will always hold a special place in my heart as my biggest supporters. They were always there, whether it was a surprise road trip to Harrisburg 3 days before leaving, on live radio and TV, or winning an award.
I cannot imagine where I would be today if I didn’t start The Seen Project. I hold so much love in my heart for this project, all the people i’ve met during it, and worked with because of it. I am excited to see where The Seen Project takes me next. 🎓
