As a nursing student at Adelphi University, preparing to graduate this December, my passion has always been rooted in caring for others, especially in the field of labor and delivery, where I hope to one day work as a nurse and eventually continue my education to become a midwife. Throughout my journey, I’ve come to realize that patient education is just as important as patient care, which is why my connection with The Maurer Foundation for Breast Health Education has become so meaningful to me.
My first encounter with the Foundation was through their annual Motorcycle Ride. I initially attended after hearing about it from my boyfriend’s brother, who is part of the Chosen Souls Motorcycle Club, the group that leads the run each year. Walking into that event for the first time was overwhelming in the best way possible. I was in complete shock at the number of bikes and people who showed up. The energy was incredible, but what stood out the most to me was how kind, welcoming, and genuine everyone was. It didn’t take long for me to realize that this was more than just a motorcycle ride, it is a community coming together for a powerful cause.
A few days after the event, I returned to pick up a raffle prize I had won, and that moment unexpectedly deepened my connection to the Foundation. I had the chance to speak more closely with members of the organization, learning about their mission and the impact they have on breast health education. That experience inspired me to stay involved and find ways to contribute beyond just attending events.
As President of the Adelphi University Student Nurses Association (AUSNA), I was in a position to take that next step. With the support of my peers, we organized a fundraiser through a zip-up sweatshirt sale and were able to raise $1,060 for The Maurer Foundation. That experience was incredibly rewarding, not only because of the funds we raised, but because it brought awareness to an important cause within our nursing community.
Building on that momentum, I helped bring The Maurer Foundation into AUSNA events and later into our Community Health Nursing class. Introducing breast health education to my peers in a hands-on, engaging way was an eye-opening experience for many of us. My classmates responded with genuine interest and appreciation, recognizing how vital this knowledge is for our future roles as healthcare providers. Learning these skills early allows us to feel more confident in educating and empowering our future patients.
Now, being part of the Motorcycle Ride Committee has been another meaningful way for me to stay connected and give back. This role represents more than just planning an event, it’s about supporting a mission that truly saves lives through education and early detection. My experiences with The Maurer Foundation have shaped how I view my future in nursing. I now understand that advocacy and education must go hand in hand with clinical care.
Looking ahead, I hope to continue promoting breast health awareness throughout my career, no matter where I end up practicing. Whether it’s through patient education, community outreach, or simply starting conversations, I want to be a voice that encourages early detection and proactive health practices.
For young people looking to get involved, you don’t have to be in healthcare to make a difference. Attend events, volunteer your time, spread awareness on social media, or support fundraisers, every effort counts. I’ve learned that even the smallest actions can grow into something meaningful and anyone can be part of that impact. My journey with The Maurer Foundation started with a single event, but it has grown into a passion that will stay with me throughout my career and beyond.