True Grit

We hear you recently celebrated your birthday. What’s one thing you’re thankful for this year, and what did you wish for?
I wished for better health because this year, I was diagnosed with some health conditions. I’ve had many health issues since I was 10 years old, and I just want to be healthy and live a normal life without worrying about my medical bills and medications that I have to take.

That being said, I am most thankful for my partner who has been accompanying me to my hospital appointments, because my parents are very old and should avoid going to high risk places like hospitals. My partner never fails to reassure me every time I feel like a burden because of my health, and I can’t get through this without him.

What is the biggest thing your partner has taught you?
To be selfless and stay true to myself. To not change myself for those who don’t like me, and to always help other people because all of us are sharing this Earth we live in.

Who is your biggest inspiration in life?
My mom—sounds cliché, but I mean it. She’s a very petite lady who gave birth to four children, but what amazes me most is that she gave birth to my twin sister and I within 13 minutes through a natural birth, which is rare for twins.

She’s in her 50’s now, but she still gets through each day like she’s in her 30’s. She inspires me to live in the moment and not let age or health define you.

What’s it like having a twin sister?
I cannot live without her (laughs). I know a lot of people say they can’t live without their parents—I mean, I also cannot live without my parents, but my sister, I really cannot live without her. She just gets me.

Is there anything new you’d like to pick up in the near future?
I just want to learn to love myself and pick up new languages like Korean and Tagalog.