I grew up in Oakland, CA with my single mom. My Dad was in and out of my life. Mostly out. We struggled a lot. My family struggled and continues to struggle.
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My mom was diagnosed with breast cancer when I was 8. She was only 41. She's still fighting it.
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I was diagnosed with Marfan Syndrome, a congenital heart and connective tissue disorder at 13. I've been on heart medication ever since.
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I got through high school at Oakland Tech and transferred to San Lorenzo High after I was abandoned by mom in junior year. After that, I experienced bouts of homelessness, sexual violence, and intense hunger.
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I eventually graduated and got a full ride to the University of Southern California on my academics alone. Community organizations supported me the entire way, paying for SATs, prepping me for college, paying for apps, etc.
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I had open heart surgery during my junior year of college, a major threat to finishing. But I came back six weeks later and got a 3.7 GPA, on the Dean's List. I couldn't even walk a full block yet bc my heart was so fragile.
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With Marfans, they typically say you shouldn't have children. I have three. They are healthy. So am I.
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I'm writing all this not to boast or brag or for pity or attention but to say thst many of us have no choice but to forge the life we desire from the materials we have, however inefficient and unprepared.
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I am not magical. I am queer, Black, woman, working class, disabled, and ratchet af. I am surviving, constantly. I chose to. I choose to.
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I'm graduating with my PhD from UChicago on Saturday and I just wanted to tell y'all that story. Ashe.
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