By Van Ton-Quinlivan, CEO, Futuro Health
One of the greatest privileges of my work at Futuro Health is hearing directly from our Scholars—each with their own story of perseverance, hope, and transformation. Their journeys remind us why we exist: to expand opportunities for adults who want to serve in healthcare but need a bridge to get there.
Recently, I received a letter from Futuro Health Scholar Shiela M., whose journey captures the very heart of our mission. Her story is one of courage in the face of setbacks, and her words moved me deeply. With her permission, I’d like to share her letter here in full.
Letter of Gratitude and Reflection
This milestone means so much to me because the road to this achievement has not been an easy one. After completing my nursing degree in the Philippines, life took me on a detour that placed my NCLEX-RN dreams on hold for years. There were times I felt uncertain, as if the momentum I once had was gone.
But in the midst of those challenges, Futuro Health became a beacon of hope. Through their scholarship and unwavering support, I was given the chance to refresh the knowledge I feared I had lost and to rebuild my confidence. That opportunity made all the difference. Because of Futuro Health, I was able to give my best in the VN program, graduate as valedictorian and summa cum laude, and most importantly—believe in myself again.
I cannot express enough how deeply grateful I am to Futuro Health for investing in students like me. Their commitment to uplifting and empowering aspiring healthcare professionals is life-changing. They didn’t just provide financial assistance; they gave me the courage to continue pursuing my calling, even when the path seemed uncertain.
Passing the NCLEX-PN is another milestone that reassures me that it’s never too late to rise again and follow our dreams. With this accomplishment, I now look forward to preparing for the NCLEX-RN with renewed determination, knowing that Futuro Health has helped me lay a strong foundation for this next step.
As I look toward 2025, I am filled with gratitude and pride, ready to finally say: I’m officially a Nurse – LVN. This achievement is not mine alone —it belongs to every person and every program, like Futuro Health, that chose to believe in me when I struggled to believe in myself. Thank you for choosing me.
To anyone who feels their journey has been delayed: please don’t lose hope. Delays are not denials. Your moment will come, and with the right support, you will find your way. I am living proof of that truth, and I owe so much of it to Futuro Health’s guidance and generosity.
From the bottom of my heart-thank you, Futuro Health, for opening doors and helping me reclaim my dream.
With endless gratitude and determination,
Shiela M.
Licensed Vocational Nursing Program | Futuro Health Scholar | Valedictorian, Unitek College
Reading Shiela’s words fills me with both pride and humility. Her letter beautifully illustrates what we hope every Futuro Health Scholar experiences—a renewed sense of purpose and belief in their own potential.
At Futuro Health, we know that the path to a healthcare career is rarely a straight line. Life happens—detours, financial strain, caregiving responsibilities, and moments of self-doubt can make the dream of becoming a healthcare professional feel distant. That’s why we’re here: to meet learners where they are and walk alongside them as they reclaim that dream.
What moves me most about Shiela’s journey is her message to others: “Delays are not denials.” Those four words capture the spirit of thousands of our Scholars—individuals who persevere through challenge and emerge stronger, ready to serve their communities.
As we look back on 2025, I’m reminded that every milestone—every certification earned, every new healthcare role filled—represents not just a personal achievement, but a community impact. Each scholar we support strengthens the health and resilience of families and neighborhoods across our nation.
Thank you, Shiela, for sharing your story and for embodying what Futuro Health stands for: hope, opportunity, and the power to rise again.