My name is Ebony Lewis, and I am a proud student in Baker College’s School of Nursing at the Royal Oak Campus. As a first-generation college student, my journey has been far from traditional, but every challenge I’ve faced has only fueled my determination to succeed. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to share my story as part of this year’s Black History Month celebration.
This past year has been the most challenging of my life. While navigating the demands of nursing school, I experienced heartbreak and loss in ways I could never have imagined. I lost my mother, the woman who was my biggest cheerleader and the heart of my family. Shortly after, I found myself without stable housing, unsure of where I would sleep or how I could continue my studies. As if these hardships weren’t enough, I suffered a mini-stroke, which forced me to confront my own health while still striving to care for others in my field of study.
Through it all, I refused to give up. My mother’s strength and sacrifices continue to inspire me every day, and the dream of becoming a nurse, a role where I can provide hope and healing to others has been my anchor. Nursing has given me a purpose bigger than myself, and I see it as a way to honor the struggles and resilience of those who came before me.
For me, Black History Month is a time to celebrate the power of perseverance and the beauty of community. It’s a reminder that we stand on the shoulders of giants, and that even in the face of adversity, we can rise to achieve greatness. It’s also a time to reflect on how we can contribute to this legacy, not only through our successes but by lifting others as we climb.
To my fellow Baker College students,especially those just beginning their journey,I want to say this: Your struggles don’t define you. How you choose to face them does. Don’t be afraid to reach out for help, whether it’s from your peers, professors, or the resources available to you. Lean on your community, and let the strength of your dreams carry you through the hardest days.
As I prepare to graduate from the Baker College School of Nursing at the Royal Oak Campus, I am filled with gratitude for the lessons I’ve learned, the people who have supported me, and the opportunities that lie ahead. I hope that by sharing my story, I can inspire others to keep moving forward, no matter how daunting the road may seem.
Thank you for allowing me to be part of this celebration of Black excellence. I am honored to share my journey and to stand alongside so many others who are creating their own stories of resilience, achievement, and hope.