Inspiring story, Mizin Bilal

Many people have found inspiration and motivation in stories of people who have overcome adversity to achieve extraordinary things. These stories often empower people to embrace their own potential and make a positive impact on the world. Impacto tells inspiring stories of young teens and students at Esperanza Academy who embark on a journey of self-discovery. These remarkable people learn to use their strengths and leverage the support around them to reach their full potential and make their dreams a reality.

Mazin Bilal, 17 years old

I grew up in a family where medicine and knowledge were very important. My parents, uncles, aunts and cousins ​​were all practicing physicians. I always had the opportunity to understand what it meant to be a doctor, but I wasn’t sure if healthcare was right for me. I couldn’t look past the night shifts and the crushing debt; I couldn’t understand why anyone would want to work in healthcare.

That changed when I took Mr. Rozek’s class in 10th grade at ECCS. He was the first teacher who made me realize that I really liked all the science that goes into medicine, I just didn’t know it. I loved everything about science related to healthcare. I was fascinated by the connections between biology and chemistry, from our organ systems to organelles, and their impact on our physiology. At that point, I decided that medicine might be a viable option; however, I didn’t yet know what I wanted to do with it.

Mr. York of EACS changed that. He is an EMT and our Introductory Health Sciences teacher. His description of patient care using a methodical approach fascinated me. I never knew how EMS stabilizes patients, controls massive bleeding, or recognizes acute conditions that require urgent transport. After what feels like a million questions and discussions, I am now pursuing my EMT certification.

Through my volunteer work and my experience in the emergency services, I have learned that many patients depend on us to see their families again. Many will not make it, that is the nature of the beast, but some will, as long as we are quick enough. When there is internal bleeding, cardiac tamponade, aortic dissection, or other acute injuries that we do not have the resources to treat, we need to organize immediate transport to a trauma center. That is when I realized that. That is when I realized that I want to be like that.

After that realization, I knew I couldn’t let it end with me. I told my English teacher, Ms. Diaz, about my idea to do a podcast that would connect students with medical professionals of all specialties. Students could ask questions, engage with, and vote on the podcast episodes. I know not everyone wants to go into medicine, but if I could get students to get involved and maybe even learn something new, I would have won. With the unwavering support of Ms. Diaz, Mr. Calixto, and the administration, this project has become a reality.

Without Esperanza, I would never have met Mr. Rozek, who was not only a great mentor but also sparked my love of science; or Mr. York, who introduced me to the EMS field; or Ms. Diaz, who continually supports my endeavors in and out of school; or the administration, who supported me every step of the way. I am truly grateful to be here at Esperanza.