No matter how old you are, you can always pursue your dream
Growing up in Tagum, Davao, Philippines, Grace Ramos envisioned a life beyond the expected traditional roles of her culture. After graduating high school, she began her long journey towards a healthcare career.
A YOUNG GIRL’S DREAM
Grace married her husband young and balanced the demands of family life with her personal aspirations. After studying nursing for two years, Grace decided to explore other careers. She had dreams of soaring the skies as a flight attendant or delving into the intricacies of medical technology. But for the good of her family and to meet their expectations, she pursued a career in healthcare.
FOR MY FATHER
Grace’s life took an unexpected turn in 2017 when her father fell seriously ill. She dedicated herself to his care with unwavering commitment, love, and compassion. Though heart-wrenching, reignited her dormant passion for healthcare. Grace’s journey through caring for her father was filled with emotional and physical challenges. She faced sleepless nights, intense stress, and the profound grief of watching a loved one suffer. This chapter of her life highlighted her natural aptitude for healthcare and compassion. With the support of her husband, her sister-in-law, her in-laws, and her family, Grace realized that perhaps healthcare wasn’t just the path expected of her but could be a meaningful career she embraced it on her terms. Day and night, Grace proved that her love for her family was higher than the skies.
She took care of her father, putting whatever she was doing down for the good of her family. With renewed passion, Grace decided to recommit herself to her studies in healthcare and move to Canada. This time, her choice was deeply personal. Grace arrived in Canada on October 19, 2023, marking a new chapter in her life. She arrived at the airport with hope and a big smile. But rainy days were to come as she worked to achieve her goals in Canada. A month after beginning her studies, Grace received heart-breaking news that her father had passed away. But because of financial factors and her determination to finish her studies, Grace did not make the long journey back to the Philippines. Grace now always carries her father’s life lessons with her.
AS A MOTHER, AS A STUDENT
As Grace unfolded her story in Canada, one of her biggest challenges was going back to school while caring for her daughter. She last attended school more than a decade ago and coming back to the classroom felt like a new experience. Overcoming communication barriers, Grace always contributed to the class by communicating her thoughts and ideas. Grace received high grades despite the adversity she faced. This shows how outstanding of a student she is. Every day Grace works hard to give her daughter the life she deserves. One of the main reasons she moved to Canada was to support her daughter in achieving her dream of becoming a doctor so she can help people, just like her mom. Now that her daughter is 16 years old and about to finish high school, Grace is ready to support her through her university life and onwards to her dream of becoming a doctor.
TOWARDS THE FUTURE
As time goes on, Grace and her daughter realize how beautiful Canada is. Step by step, they have started to build foundations of success for their future. As her husband settles things in the Philippines, she plans on bringing her beloved here in Canada so they can be together as a family again. Grace Ramos’s story is one of courage, resilience, and the pursuit of passion against all odds. Her journey from a reluctant healthcare student to a committed healthcare professional, inspired by her father’s illness and memory, is a powerful narrative of personal growth and determination. Grace’s unwavering commitment to her path serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration to her daughter, demonstrating that it is never too late to pursue one’s dreams and create a meaningful and fulfilling life.
About the Author
Emmanuel Santos is a graduate of Business Diploma – Marketing Specialization program at Stenberg College (2024). For the last six months, he has been interning with the Stenberg College Marketing Department. Born and raised in the Philippines, Emmanuel is passionate about creating designs focused on his interests and hobbies. He plans to continue growing his skills in graphic design and other media as a freelancer.
