My first blog shared a small part of my life, focusing on strength, determination, and encouragement. Growing up, my life did not unfold the way I expected. From birth, I faced struggles, and no one knew what my future would look like. School was especially difficult. I often felt I was not smart enough or as beautiful as my light-skinned family members, and being teased by my siblings deepened those feelings. In high school and college, I turned to sports and discovered my strength as an...

Before I was old enough to speak for myself, someone had already placed a limitation on my life. I entered this world two months early, weighing only three pounds and seven ounces. I was so tiny that my grandfather said he could fit me inside a dresser drawer. My fragile little body reminded my family of a wet bird, so they gave me the nickname “Bird.” It was a loving nickname, but it also reflected just how vulnerable I was. My twin sister and I were born into a single-parent household. Our...