Let’s Help Alyssa get to Peru !!

Hello, my name is Lorena and I am setting up this GoFundMe in an effort to raise money for my niece Alyssa. Amongst the things that happen in life, celebrating the hard work and efforts of this young woman whom I’m proud to be an aunt to is my utmost pleasure. Please read and consider donating if you can or share with your family and friends! We truly appreciate your support in any way you can help! Thank you!

From Alyssa -

Hi, my name is Alyssa Ramirez, and I am a first-generation Pre-PA student at the University of North Carolina Wilmington with a deep passion for providing compassionate, attainable, and equitable healthcare. I am currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in Clinical Research and Public Health, with double minors in Biology and Medical Humanities.

This Summer 2025, I have been given the incredible opportunity to intern in Peru for 5 weeks with Hands on Peru, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing preventative health services and public health education to underserved communities in Trujillo, Peru.

Why This Experience Matters

As the first in my family to attend college and study abroad, this internship serves as a life-changing opportunity that will help me develop the necessary skills and cultural competency to serve diverse and underrepresented communities as a future physician assistant. Working alongside healthcare professionals, I will assist in medical campaigns, triaging, vaccine administration, suturing, and labor and delivery – gaining hands-on experience that will shape my future career. Experiencing healthcare outside the United States will broaden my perspective on global health disparities, enhance my Spanish proficiency, and make me a more adaptable and culturally competent provider. My goal of becoming an emergency medicine PA is rooted in the belief that healthcare providers should be leaders and advocates for their patients. The most successful providers are able to extend beyond academics, drawing on personal experiences to make lasting patient impacts.

About Me & My Commitment to Healthcare

Through my rigorous coursework, I have built a strong foundation in science, research, and public health. I have maintained a strong GPA and have consistently earned recognition on the Dean's List at my university. Throughout my academic journey, I have balanced full-time coursework while also working multiple jobs and holding multiple leadership positions. I currently work as a Patient Care Associate at a local hospital, assisting patients with daily activities such as ambulating, dressing, cleaning, feeding, and monitoring vital signs. I also work as an In-Home Caregiver for the elderly community through CareYaya, providing companionship, transportation, housekeeping assistance, and medication reminders.

Beyond clinical experience, I actively serve my university and community. As President of Medical Student Social Outreach, I have organized volunteer initiatives that have supported the homeless, children, and bilingual individuals. I also serve as a Mi Casa mentor, helping first-generation Hispanic/Latino students navigate the college admissions process.

How You Can Help

I am actively applying for additional funding through my university and outside scholarship sources as well as working two jobs to help fund my abroad experience. However, I still need the support of my friends, family, and community to make this dream a reality.

Your donation — no matter the amount — will go directly towards covering program costs, airfare, meals, and all necessary supplies.

Every contribution brings me one step closer to serving communities in need and becoming a well-rounded healthcare professional. If you are unable to donate, I would greatly appreciate sharing this fundraiser with others! Thank you for your generosity and support in helping me take this next step in my career, breaking healthcare barriers, and becoming a successful physician assistant!