Advocate for Athletes by Norah

Advocate for Athletes by Norah - May 2023 Scholarship Essay

For as long as I can remember, I have been the medically challenged individual in my family. I often feel embarrassed for the amount of pain I endure and how it comes about in my life. I’ve met with almost 50 doctors in the past 4 years and found 2 that actually listened to my issues, rather than finding short-term relief. In addition, my mental health has struggled throughout the past couple of years, due to the pressure my physical pain has put on other aspects of my life.

I’ve had back and stomach pain since 8th grade, was diagnosed with anxiety my junior year, broke my finger during basketball practice, torn a ligament in my ankle, and still allow myself to feel like a fool for being in pain. Although personally I do know that these struggles are real, I seem to always have enough energy to worry about others before myself. With my medically challenging past, I’ve went through the worst and the best of doctors I could possible find. It wasn’t until I discovered the kindest physical therapist that I made the decision to follow the same path.

My dream is to become a physical therapist and mental health advocate for athletes. The push for more support for any athlete’s mental challenges has continued for many years, yet still, struggle to find advocates and a change in this society. With an mental issues I suffered with, I pushed away any signs of depression and anxiety to get to participate in my sport. I let go of allowing myself to complain about various medical issues with my back. I’ve gone through times where I would want to feel pain, to understand that I am doing what I can. I don’t want anyone to have to go through what I did. Athletes’ mental health is just as important as their physical health regardless of the fact that you cannot visibly see the issue. I believe one day I will make this change for people like me. I will push to give athletes support and understanding of what they are dealing with. No one should have to go through their day wondering if either of these aspects matters in the big picture of this world.