My dream: Medical school

Hey! My name is Brittani and my goal in life is to go to medical school and chase my dream of becoming a doctor. Growing up I have always envisioned a future with me being able to help people and change lives. My life was changed when I was only 13 years old, and ever since I have aspired to become a doctor. At the age 13, I had spinal fusion surgery which was life changing. I was told that without the surgery, I was bound to be in a wheel chair for the rest of my life. I'll always be thankful for the life changing help from all the doctors, nurses and surgeons and hope I can have a similar impact on other people's lives.

Just last year I graduated from Taita College with NCEA level 3 + UE and was able to get into Otago University. This year in February I began my study. The plan was to complete the pre-med (health science) course this year, then apply for med school to start next year. Although the plan I put in place seemed complicated, especially having to move from Wellington to Dunedin, and committing to 7 years of study, in February I was doing it.

I was doing well and enjoyed Otago more than you could possibly imagine. The experience Otago gives students is remarkable! Unfortunately, in April a traumatic event occurred and I was unable to continue with my studies for the year.

In April this year, I became a victim of domestic violence which landed me in hospital with severe injuries and trauma. I was on the first flight home a few days following the incident, hoping for a speedy recovery so that I could continue my study. Unfortunately, as hard as I tried, I found myself unable to deal with the trauma quick enough and my grades fell, and my chances of getting into med school plummeted. I was unable to get back any funds that went towards my study ($8000) and I lost everything including my home in Dunedin due to event.

I do NOT want to let any of this ruin my chances of pursuing my dream. This year has showed me that no matter what happens, I want this more than anything. And I want to get back on track ASAP! But I need as much help as I can possibly get. I need the money to help me set myself up for study again, and to pay for the course and equipment that I'll need. And as soon as I have that, I'm set to go and ready to give this my all!

Please help give me and my dream a second chance.