Tory Martin is a MA-AAS student who was nominated as a GEM. Tory has always demonstrated a great work ethic and she is an exemplary example of perseverance and strength. She has held a 3.94% GPA up until this term. On December 18th, 2022, Tory got into a really bad car accident. She ended up losing her right arm and she has a broken right foot as well. Tory has been trying to navigate this difficult chapter of her life as best as possible. She decided to continue fighting in order to graduate this term. She is currently sitting in a hospital bed doing her homework from her phone as best she can to pass both classes and graduate.
We sat down with Tory to hear more about her story and journey. Here is what she had to say:
Tell me a little bit about yourself.
So my name is Tory. I have 3 biological kids and 2 bonus kids. They are 4, 8, 12, 14, and 15. In terms of hobbies, I don’t have many, but when I’m not working, I really enjoy spending my time with my kids. I aspire to continue my education to become a nurse one day. I’ve always wanted to work in OB nursing. I’m not sure if that is in my cards, though. I was in an accident in December that resulted in me losing my right arm, just above the elbow.
What inspired you to come to Ross?
I wanted to change my position in the medical field. Since I am a full-time working mom, I needed something that was faster and partly online.
How has your experience been so far? Any memorable experiences or moments?
My experience has been great! Everyone has been very nice and helpful.
What made you want to pursue healthcare?
I’ve been in healthcare since 2012 working as a CNA. I got into the medical field because I wanted to help others.
Are there any particular people who have inspired you to progress as a person?
My kids have always been my motivation to push myself further in life. I want to show them that you can do anything you want in life and I’ve always worked hard in order to give them a better life than I had.
An important lesson you’ve learned so far.
Ask for help. I’ve always had a hard time asking for help but I’ve learned that it isn’t that bad at all. People are almost always willing to help you, especially professionally.
If you could give your younger self a piece of advice, what would it be?
I would say to be patient and always work hard because it pays off in the end!
A fun fact about you.
I’m ambidextrous! I’ve always been able to use both of my hands/arms equally.
A few things you wish you knew before going into the medical field.
Families are difficult at times, so I always try to empathize with them and their situations instead of taking everything so personal.
What achievements are you most proud of?
Graduating high school early. I was a teen mom at the time. My daughter was two years old when I finished high school. I’m also proud of getting my CNA at 17 before I graduated high school.
Additionally, going back to school and receiving my RMA, and now associates, in medical assisting was a huge accomplishment. I am now working on finishing my associates degree classes during a really challenging time. I just got into a really bad car accident that caused me to lose my right arm from the elbow down. So it’s been really hard, but I am trying to keep on fighting and finishing strong despite all of the adversity.