In 2004, Ms. Ford found her passion and love for helping others. She decided to attend Everest Institute to obtain a diploma as a Patient Care Technician. When her father was involved in an auto accident that left him unable to care for himself, she stopped attending school. Her father spent a year in Shepherd Center. Ms. Ford would often volunteer to take care of the other patients, allowing the medical assistants to take a break.

In March, 2010, Ms. Ford decided to further her education in the medical assisting field. When Ms. Ford began school, the trials of life were already in full swing. She was almost homeless, no electricity at home, and the kids were misbehaving. In spite of those obstacles, she continued coming to school. Ms. Ford maintained a B average even though she could only study at school. Ms. Ford states, "I pushed past the problems and trails and continued forward." She said, "If it wasn't for Ms. Hall and Joslyn Henderson, my Admissions Rep, I would have quit school." Their listening ears, support and words of encouragement helped Ms. Ford make it through.

Today, Ms. Ford is thankful for her trials and problems. "I am not the same person I was when I started school. I am a stronger woman due to the trials and problems."