Brenda is currently in the pre-nursing program at Wake Technical Community College, with a goal of completing in 2027. She works multiple jobs to be able to attend school during the day, and is the mother of three children – two teenagers and one toddler.
Brenda has overcome many obstacles in her life. She was adopted, but then due to abuse in the home, entered foster care at the age of 13. Upon existing foster care she entered into a relationship with the father of her children, and became a victim of human trafficking. Once she escaped, she continued to face challenges, financial and other types. The past five years have been a period of relative stability, and though she still struggles at times, knows she is strong and will survive.
Her experiences have led her to want to give back, and show others that you can survive and thrive. She has experienced first hand how the needs of mental health patients are often overlooked and ignored. Her goal of being a nurse and specializing in mental health is core to her desire “to make a difference in someone’s life and to inspire others.”