MY STORY by Debbie Basulto

  Tears came out of my eyes when I heard her cry as she entered the world. It was July 24, 2006 when my beautiful baby girl was born. Being able to hold Destiny for the first time was the most amazing feeling I have ever felt throughout my whole life. I was finally able to experience what it was like to be a mother. I felt a lot of joy and happiness coming my way although I was only fifteen at the time, Destiny was a beautiful gift to my world and I know I had to give everything I could to her. Two days after giving birth, I was finally able to go home. Leaving the hospital and walking out with my new born felt as if I was a completely different person and couldn’t wait to go home and introduce Destiny to what she could and would call home.

As I arrived home with Destiny for the first time, it was an unforgettable moment because my whole family was waiting for us to arrive and welcome our baby home. From that day on I knew that was the beginning to my new start. I have to say that staying up all night, changing dippers, and feeding the baby was the most difficult part of being a mother. Two months after bonding with Destiny I realized how strong a mother has to be - not only physically, but also emotionally, because having a child is a huge responsibility.

After three months of being home with Destiny, it was finally time for me to get back into school. Going back to school was very exciting because I would be able to see my friends. Yet, I didn’t know how hard it was going to be without my daughter next to me. As the days, weeks, and months went by, I know the sacrifice I was doing would soon pay off. Being a fifteen year old, having a baby and going to school was very difficult and, as the time went by, it was even harder. When I reached the age of seventeen, I began working part-time to be able to support my daughter. A few months after, I graduated high school and my parents and family felt very happy and proud of me for accomplishing that first goal on my list.

About one month after graduating from high school I continued working but I knew that I had to look for a good career to be able to provide a good future for my daughter. I then decided to attend college and go for a fast career as a Medical Assistant in where I would be able to work in the medical field. Eight months after sacrifices I managed to graduate college and was quickly hired in a medical office. Throughout that time I also joined a very good program that is called L.A.P.D Explorers in where, I also graduated from a three month academy training that they offer and became one of their members.

I am currently twenty one years of age and have a beautiful, smart, amazing five-year old who I love with all my heart. I thank god every day for sending me this wonderful gift that changed my entire life by making me who I am right now: a strong, hard working women and an excellent mother. I have been working as a Medical Assistant for two years know. Concurrently, I am enrolled in college to soon be able to obtain my Associates Degree in Criminal Justice and, hopefully accomplish my career goal and become a Law Enforcement Officer one day.