Never Give Up Hope: The Power of Determination & Faith
May 7, 2025
Written By: LaTreece Ross, M.Ed., LPC
Life has a way of challenging us in ways we never expect. Sometimes, those challenges feel insurmountable, and the road ahead seems uncertain. But if my journey has taught me anything, it’s that you should never give up hope or lose sight of your dreams—because miracles happen when you refuse to quit.
Overcoming the Odds
At the beginning of my senior year of high school, my life took a drastic turn. After receiving the required vaccine to fulfill my required community service credits for high school graduation, I had an adverse reaction that left me with lower leg weakness, eventually requiring me to use a wheelchair. Doctors were unsure of my prognosis. My symptoms mimicked conditions like Multiple Sclerosis or Guillain-Barré Syndrome, and they warned that my recovery hinged on my progress within the first three months of physical therapy.
Despite the grim outlook, I made a choice: I was going to fight. I worked tirelessly in therapy, staying positive and prayerful, refusing to let go of my dream of walking again. I envisioned myself walking across the stage at graduation, and that vision fueled my determination. Through perseverance, faith, and unwavering effort, I did exactly that. I walked to receive my high school diploma, a moment that symbolized not just my academic achievement, but my triumph over adversity.
Now, 25 years later, I am walking and healthy. My experience taught me that no doctor, no diagnosis, and no circumstance can determine your future—only you can.
Coping with Trauma and Life Changes
Traumatic events—especially those that affect our health—can be overwhelming. Here are some ways to cope:
- Stay Positive – Focus on what you can do rather than what you can’t. Small victories add up over time.
- Lean on Faith or a Support System – Whether it’s prayer, meditation, family, or friends, surround yourself with encouragement and love.
- Set Small Goals – Achieving little milestones will help rebuild confidence and create momentum toward recovery.
- Embrace Adaptability – Life doesn’t always go as planned, but adapting to change can open new doors and opportunities.
- Seek Professional Help if Needed – Therapy or counseling can be beneficial in processing trauma and developing coping mechanisms.
Final Thoughts
- Your journey is your own, and no one else has the power to dictate your future. Challenges may arise, but within you is the strength to overcome them. Never give up hope, never stop fighting, and always believe in the possibility of something better. You are stronger than you think, and your story is far from over.
