In early 2014 I went on a two-month trip to compete in a few mountain bike races in Europe. I had worked really hard to get to that level of competition, and I was hoping to do well. When it came time to race, however, I felt sick and performed terribly in the races. After I returned to the United States, my health worsened until I could hardly leave the house. I stayed inside most days and struggled in school.

In April of 2015 I was diagnosed with Lyme disease and received treatment. Though I still had bad days, I generally began to feel much better. As I recovered, I contemplated serving a mission. I decided to serve as a young Church-service missionary until I was healthy enough to serve a full-time proselyting mission. I soon began serving at the Deseret Industries Humanitarian Center.

The atmosphere at the humanitarian center made me feel welcome. My job coach was flexible, and I felt like a valuable member of the team. He and my development counselor helped me to recognize the steps I needed to take to ensure success in my future education and career plans.

What I enjoyed most about the humanitarian center was getting to know the other associates. Many of them were refugees who had overcome unimaginable obstacles such as war, persecution, death of loved ones, hunger, and malnutrition. As I heard stories from these strong, courageous people every day, I quickly forgot about my own problems. I was surrounded by people who had been plagued with unfair circumstances, yet somehow they showed gratitude.

As time went on, my health improved, but I realized that being at the humanitarian center was the right mission for me. I served there as a missionary for a year, and during that time, I taught myself Swahili and learned many other important skills. The experience I gained at the humanitarian center earned me the job I currently have at the English Skills Learning Center. I am grateful for all the help Deseret Industries has given me; it has completely changed my life.