Many college graduates will be crossing the stage and accepting their diplomas this December, but one El Paso Nursing student will be celebrating a lot more than that!
When 26-year-old Malena Mendoza walks the stage at El Paso Community College’s Associate Degree of Nursing Pinning Ceremony this week, she won’t just be receiving a pin. She’ll be celebrating a victory that nearly slipped away.
Earlier this year, Malena noticed unusual swelling in her left leg after a long day of classes. A visit to the ER revealed a deep vein thrombosis and, even more alarming, an 11-centimeter mass pressing against her vein.
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On July 7, Malena received the diagnosis no one ever expects at 26: Mesenchymal Chondrosarcoma, a rare and aggressive cancer. Doctors initially advised a full leg amputation.
“I was terrified,” she said. “I kept wondering how I’d finish school. Nursing has been my dream for so long.”
Refusing to give up her future, Malena chose to begin chemotherapy just weeks before the fall semester. What followed was a grueling routine of multi-hour chemo sessions, exams, clinical rotations, and the emotional weight of uncertainty. Some weeks, she spent five days straight in treatment, only to return to campus determined to keep moving forward.
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Her professors noticed. “Malena is dedicated, brave, and kind,” said Irma Carlos De Ramirez, EPCC Assistant Professor of Nursing. “She is a true example of resilience and leadership.”
Malena credits her instructors, classmates, coworkers, and family for giving her the strength to push through. Now, she’s preparing for surgery after graduation and hopes to pursue a career in the NICU or ICU.
As she crosses the stage this week, one thing is clear: Malena is proof that no matter how tough a situation seems, you are able to overcome that obstacle with hope and determination. A very true Mija, Yes You Can moment for sure!
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