Royal Oak, MI — For Heather Humphery, resilience isn’t just a mindset. It’s a way of life. Her story is a testament to determination, adaptability, and the power of continuing to move forward despite obstacles.
Heather lives with Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT), an inherited peripheral nerve disease that affects the muscles and nerves of the arms and legs. The condition runs in her family, with her father, twin sister, and oldest son also having CMT, but each experiencing it differently. As an invisible disability, CMT doesn’t always present obvious physical signs, but its impact is real. And for Heather, it has never defined her limits.
A first-generation college student, Heather’s path to higher education wasn’t linear. Like many adult learners, she balanced career responsibilities, family life, and financial concerns while putting her own educational goals on hold. She had reached a plateau professionally and knew that continuing her education would be the key to moving forward, but timing and uncertainty kept her waiting.
Encouragement from a colleague helped shift her perspective. With support from Baker College’s financial services team and the flexibility of online classes, Heather realized returning to school was possible. The online format has allowed her to maintain a healthy work-life balance while pursuing her degree, proving advancement doesn’t have to come at the expense of family.
Heather is currently enrolled in the Health Information Management program, a field that perfectly aligns with both her interests and her goals. She found a pathway that allows her to contribute meaningfully to the healthcare system and build a rewarding career while navigating her condition and parenthood. Heather also wants to inspire her children. “I want my children to know that education continues after graduating high school,” she said. “You’re never too young or too old to grow, gain new knowledge, or build on the skills and experience you already have.”
She continues to find new ways to accomplish daily tasks and remains steadfast in her belief that CMT will not stand in the way of her goals including raising awareness. “With CMT being an invisible disability, I want faculty and fellow students to understand that not all disabilities will have distinctive features,” Heather said. “Rare diseases are part of our community, and it’s okay to ask questions and seek understanding. I find new ways to do things everyday, and CMT will not stop me from achieving my goals.”
Her advice to other first-generation or returning students is simple: “Take the leap. If you have colleagues and people around you letting you know that with a little more education you could achieve more at your current workplace or in general, go for it.”
Baker College Baker College is an independent, private, non-profit institution that grants associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees on six campuses across Michigan and online. Founded in 1911, the institution’s mission is to provide an inclusive, innovative, and transformative educational experience, driven by a student-first philosophy. Learn more at baker.edu and follow on X, Meta, and Instagram.