Life doesn’t always go as planned. As a student-athlete, I’ve learned that resilience isn’t just about bouncing back from a tough game — it’s about handling life’s challenges and pushing forward no matter what.
Basketball has always been my passion, but at the heart of that passion is my grandmother — whom I call “Meme.” She has been my biggest supporter, my loudest cheerleader, and my safe space both in school and in sports. Almost every game, I could find her in the stands, smiling with pride no matter the outcome. She always believed in me, even when I struggled to believe in myself. But in January 2024, everything changed. Meme was diagnosed with Dementia-Alzheimer’s, and my world turned upside down.
Meme is an amazing woman. She was an English teacher and taught in the Richmond Public Schools until she retired after 32 years to come home and take care of me during the day while my parents worked after I was born. But even after retiring, she continued to volunteer and stay involved at the school she had dedicated so much of her life to.
She graduated from Virginia Commonwealth University and was one of the first African American students to integrate VCU, breaking barriers and persevering in a school that wasn’t always welcoming. Her strength and determination have always inspired me. She also taught me the power of writing—how words can tell a story, express feelings, and leave a legacy. That’s why I write. Every word I put down carries a piece of her spirit.
The past year has been a challenge. Watching someone you love slowly change is one of the hardest things I’ve ever faced. Some days, she remembers our moments together, and some days, those memories slip away. Sometimes, she still talks about my games like she’s sitting right there in the front row, and other times, she doesn’t remember them at all. It’s difficult, but I’ve learned to love her through it all.
At the same time, my final basketball season started with another obstacle. In August, I had surgery to have a rod placed in my leg. I had plans to finish my last year strong, but instead, I had to push through recovery and adjust to the physical and mental struggles that came with it. My body felt different, and so did my mindset. The game that had always felt so natural suddenly felt different. But I kept going, knowing that every step forward was a step toward regaining my strength.
Through all of this, I’m grateful for my parents, who have stayed close to support me these past few years at Le Moyne. But with Meme’s diagnosis, I know their focus has shifted, as it should. They can’t always be at my games like before, but I still feel their love and support every day. One thing that has always mattered to me is my commitment to my team. That commitment also pushed me to keep going, even when things felt overwhelming. I believe in playing for something bigger than myself—putting the team first, working together, and always giving my best.
That’s how I approach the game. It’s never been about personal recognition for me—it’s about playing with heart, supporting my teammates, and pushing each other to be better. Despite everything, I’m still here. Still playing. Still fighting. Still pushing forward. Some days are harder than others, but I remind myself why I keep going. I play for Meme, for my family, for myself, and for my teammates too. Because resilience isn’t just about getting through tough times—it’s about rising above them and staying strong.
I don’t know how this season will end, but I do know one thing: I won’t let my challenges define me. No matter what happens, I’ll walk away knowing I gave it everything I had. That’s something no one can take away from me.
I also want to take a moment to bring awareness to Dementia-Alzheimer’s. It’s a disease that affects not just those diagnosed but the families who love them. If you know someone going through this, support them. Be present. Learn about it. This cause means everything to me, and I hope others will take the time to understand and support those who are affected.
