I was born at Yale New Haven Hospital and for 10 years cleaned the same hallways as a janitor, and now I am returning there as a resident doctor.

At 18, fresh out of high school, I took a job at the hospital to support myself and my family. For nearly 10 years, I cleaned patient rooms. Everything changed when my mom got sick. Watching her struggle to be heard in the healthcare system opened my eyes to the reality of healthcare disparities. In that moment, I knew I wanted to become the doctor, my mom needed at that time. I did not grow up with doctors in my family so I had to google “how to become a doctor," in order to navigate this system.

While working full time, I earned my degree, then my master’s, and eventually was accepted into medical school at Howard University. After years of sacrifice and unwavering faith, I matched into anesthesiology at Yale, the same hospital where I once worked as a janitor. It was a full circle moment I will never take for granted.

But behind this milestone is a reality many people do not see.

Medical students graduate with significant debt, and when we match into residency, we are expected to relocate within just a few weeks. During this time, we are not earning any money and many of us are forced to take out additional loans just to afford moving costs, housing deposits, and basic living expenses. Like many others in my position, I am facing the financial burden that comes with this transition.

Your contribution will help cover:

1. Moving truck and gas

* This helps with getting everything I own to my new home, making the move possible.

2. First month’s rent

* This helps secure my apartment and have a place to land right away.

3. Security deposit

* This is required upfront just to get the keys and move in.

4. Household items and basic essentials

* Things like cleaning supplies, kitchen basics, and other items needed to make my new place functional.

5. Groceries and household necessities

* This helps with getting through the first few weeks while everything settles and income catches up.

6. Utilities (electric, internet, etc.)

* So I can get everything set up and running without delays.

Thank you for believing in my journey.