This photo displays the individuals who are greatly responsible for who I am today, both as a person and a nurse. These people have at times challenged me, supported me, and driven me and without them I would not be the same person. Two people, my mother and father, have especially influenced my journey as a nurse. As many of you know, my mother was diagnosed with stage four breast cancer over five years ago. I was shocked when she told the family that she would not be pursuing the traditional and recommend route of radiation, mastectomy, and then chemotherapy but rather take a holistic/natural approach. I had just graduated my ADN program at the time and was bound and determined I would change her mind. She did not change her mind, but she did change mine. For the first few years I was bitter and angry, "how could my mother be so selfish and ignorant?" I thought "how could my father let her choose a route and then support her on a path that will most likely end in her death?" And then I began my BSN program, still battling these emotions, and one day the light bulb switched on. If my mother was a patient of mine would I discourage her or encourage her to her fullest potential? My mother, like any other person or patient has the right to choose what treatment they wish to receive and should be entitled to our support, even when we wish they would choose another path. I am not saying to not educate patients on the potential risks and benefits different choices entail, but to respect their choices and aid them in achieving their fullest potential during your encounter with them. My father's unfailing support and encouragement of my mom is humbling to watch and has motivated me to be that  source of support system and advocate for my patient's wishes, especially when no one else is on board. Each person should be able to choose their journey and at least have one person support them to achieve their fullest potential, that is what holistic care, and human flourishing are all about and I hope to be able to aid my patients on this journey of complete well-being.