I was diagnosed with Gaucher Disease at five years old after months of tests and a bone marrow biopsy in Miami. At the time, most doctors had never even heard of it. There were few answers — only monitoring, pain management, and uncertainty.
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When we moved to Central Florida, my mom began taking me to what was then Candlelighters (now BASE Camp Children’s Cancer Foundation) and The Children’s Wish Foundation (now New Hope for Kids). I was the only child with Gaucher Disease in both groups — but for the first time, I felt seen.
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What began as support meetings became Christmas parties, Easter events, summer gatherings, overnight camps — moments filled with laughter and light.
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One of my most treasured memories is sitting at peppermint-covered tables at Give Kids the World, talking with Miss Terri, BASE Camp’s founder. She took time with me. She made me feel important. That kindness has stayed with me for decades.
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And thanks to those memories, the emotion I most associate with my childhood illness is not fear.
It is joy.​
Today, managing Gaucher Disease is a part of my life — but it no longer defines it.
I receive weekly enzyme replacement infusions, and I’m grateful to be able to have them at home — surrounded by my children, pets, and the comfort of familiar space. That simple change has made a profound difference in my quality of life.I am also a proud mom of two — something I once feared might not be possible. Motherhood is one of my greatest blessings, and it has shaped so much of who I am today.
Last summer, I took the stage as Ms. Classic Universe.
Before that, I had only ever done one pageant in my life — a scholastic pageant as a child. The experience was incredible: the events, the fashion, the sisterhood, and the journey itself pushed me out of my comfort zone and challenged me to grow and blossom.Winning the crown was a dream come true — and to also receive the People’s Choice Award was an added honor. It has been humbling, exciting, and deeply meaningful to represent women who lead with resilience, faith, and authenticity.
Since winning the crown last July, I’ve had the joy of using my reign to support causes that have shaped my life and the lives of countless others.
From volunteering and attending charity events for BASE Camp Children's Cancer Foundation and New Hope for Kids, to supporting Big Dog Ranch Rescue and veterans’ causes, each event and initiative has been a reminder that the crown is more than a symbol — it’s a platform for service, connection, and purpose.
Being Ms. Classic Universe has given me the opportunity to shine a light on the quiet struggles of chronic illness, celebrate hope and joy, and walk alongside others who are defying the odds every day.
What I Love About Classic Universe
Classic Universe is more than a competition — it’s a sisterhood.
It’s women lifting one another up, growing together, and using their voices for impact.
It celebrates life experience, resilience, faith, entrepreneurship, motherhood, and leadership.
It is a stage where your story becomes impact, your platform is amplified, and your growth is visible.
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This role has allowed me to expand awareness for chronic illness, support the organizations that shaped my childhood, and connect with women who lead with purpose.
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If you have a cause close to your heart, feel called to serve, or want to step into a season of bold visibility with purpose, I encourage you to explore Classic Universe.
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Visit www.classicuniverse.org to learn more, discover the sisterhood, and apply to join us on stage.
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Your story is not too late. Your voice is not too small. And your light was never meant to be hidden.
