Mireya Lopez-Jimenez

During a summer camp run by easterseals, I cheered on an eighteen-year-old with cerebral palsy as she pulled a fish out of the water for the first time. I have reflected on that day many times, remembering the joy and enthusiasm that camper had for the rest of the trip. Our lived experiences play a fundamental role in shaping our perspectives, beliefs, values, behaviors, and how we interact with others. I have involved myself in the neurodevelopmental disability space for years and my previous work as a genetic counseling assistant showed me some of the gaps in our healthcare system.

Advocating in healthcare requires dedication, expertise, and a commitment to improving the well-being of others. I want to make a difference at times when families need compassion and a safe space to communicate their thoughts while representing my community as a Latina. By embracing the richness and complexity of our collective experiences, we can foster empathy, resilience, and community growth.