My childhood was deprived of the warmth of a loving family. As a child, I suffered from a very serious form of asthma. The poor conditions I was living in at home were threatening my life, so I was sent to several hospitals and then I spent 10 years of my life in a TB Prevention Sanatorium. Living among strangers taught me a lot. Not having anyone to guide me, I had to keep an open mind and pay attention to everything around me if I wanted to learn.

I believe the most important part of the program is the mentorship element. I benefit from the guidance of a mentor I always dreamed about, not only because she has the same profession, but also because she is a highly educated, cultured person, who is a perfect fit for me: she enlightens me on so many levels. She knows what I need and helps me beyond my expectations.
I take this opportunity to send my gratitude and consideration to my mentor, Dr. Liliana Cerepnalkoski, and Stefania Magidson as well as to all the people who make the foundation’s work happen and who choose to support Blue Heron scholarship recipients.
Elvis, Blue Heron scholarship recipient 2010-2016, M.D., Carol Davila Medical University, Bucharest.