As a child I was always sick. My mother talked about going to different talks in an attempt resolve my constant sickness. I missed 90% of school activities due to being chronically ill. When I was 10 years old the doctors finally informed my mother that I had a heart problem and referred us to a cardiologist. I was born with a congenital heart defect known as Tetralogy of Fallot. Not a promising prognosis for a child born in Nigeria around the biarfran war. I am one of the lucky people that have had only two open heart surgeries and not too many hear related complications. I have ran 4 half marathons and one full marathon and endless 5Ks, 10Ks. I run because I was never supposed to run, given my heart. I have three beautiful children that inspire me to do more for others. During my pregnancy with my third child, I discovered I had contracted Hepatitis C from one of my open heart surgeries. In 2015, I successfully fought with my health insurance to cover the newly approved medication Harvoni for my treatment. Even though I was asymptomatic, I did not want to live with a “possibility” of the disease flaring up and today, I am Hepatitis C. I am free because of my perseverance in not accepting no. My many life challenges have taught me to inspire others and given me the drive and compassion to support others, especially children with disabilities. I have a BA and MA in Communication Disorders and Sciences. In 2000, I started my business Innovative Therapy Services to support children with different challenging disabilities. I continue to work with various community programs both in the private sectors and public schools to support natural learning experiences for students with language deficits. I am starting the Regina Learning Center in honor of my mother who was an educator. Kiva loan will support the Regina Learning Center program that we will open its door to students starting January 2017.