Cyntra Scott: An Inspiring Innovating Individual.

    Just imagine someone telling you that you can't do something based off of your race, background, gender and even your health condition. Most people would believe their condition is a hurdle that they could never jump and play it "safe" for the rest of their lives. But not Cyntra Scott. Cyntra D. Scott has sickle cell anemia which is where there is an abnormality in the oxygen carrying haemoglobin in the red blood cells. The blood cells are shaped almost like a "C" or sickle- liike shape. This disease caused many to have attacks of severe pain, infections, and even stroke.
   The doctors told Cyntra that she would be "crippled by four and dead by eight." Did she die? No. Did she push on and pursue her life. Yes! Cyntra has beaten the odds of the sickle cell disease. She has pushed through by being an exellent educator devoting her time to many students who need her assistance, building a foundation for sickle cell awarness called " IMM: Inspring more minds.", re-enforcing positive empowerment throught her life, and always finding an innovating way to help others and explore all possibilites within life. She is not only my aunt. She one of my best supporters and inspirations. Well done Cyntra. We all appreciate you. Here are some responses from her short interview:

 Q:   Tell me more about your foundation. What was your ambition behind it?

A: IMM – Inspiring more Minds was created to inspire and enhance the lives of those with Sickle Cell Disease.  My sister and I both have Sickle Cell Disease and realize the physical pain, mental and emotional stress that so many people have to deal with on a daily basis. We decided to form a 501c3 organization that can make a difference in the lives of others afflicted with SCD.  When you have SCD your life is constantly interrupted by episodes of unbelievably excruciating pain throughout your body.  You have to be extremely strong mentally to continue to have a positive outlook.  We want to help others understand what sickle cell is and how devastating it is to those who have it.

Q: How did you deal with your sickle cell through the years?

   

 A: I had faith that someday it would be better.  I spent my well time trying to achieve my goals and having fun with family and friends as I as able.

Q: What keeps you positive?

A: Encouragement and support from my family and friends.  My belief that I am here for a purpose to help encourage, motivate and inspire others.

Q: Who is your biggest inspiration? 

A: My family all are big sources of inspiration.  My biggest inspiration is my sister Bronwyn.  She has both sickle cell disease and rheumatoid arthritis and despite the physical pain she has daily, she is always optimistic and generous and extremely hard working.           

Q: What makes you a strong educator?

A: Finding out through questions and listening to what students say.

Q: What would be your words of wisdom to the whole universe? 

A: Find balance and embrace laughter.

                                                                                                                                             

Something New: The Shinrin Yoku

    With all the chaos in our lives such as family and friends, work, school, health issues , and even technology..... we need a break. When is the last time you had spent time with yourself without any distractions or any other human being? If you can't remember, I think it's time for you to try a Shinrin Yoku. Shinrin Yoku is translated into english as "Forest Bath" is it a long time  Japanese tradition that has health benifits each time you take a peaceful journey to the woods of forests. The health benefits include reduction of anxiety, stress, blood pressure, and cardiovascular issues. A shinrin Yoku is a great way to detoxify your mind and increase your physical activity.

    I myself took a Shinrin Yoku and I felt so relaxed while walking. I wasn't bombareded with text messages or calls, or bothered by any human being. I was able to clear my mind of tangled thoughts and after my walk, I actually thought of some solutions for my thoughts. The walk was even more beautiful because I got to hike up towards a swiming hole, see all types of trees and flowers, and see small animals cross my path. I will be definately be doing this again.