Baleigh is a senior at Lafayette Jefferson High School.
Baleigh has been active in the National Honor Society, Young Life, and two competitive show choirs: The First Edition and Expressions. After graduation, she will be attending Purdue University as a member of the Honors College in the Exploratory Studies program. Baleigh aspires to obtain a law degree. She was selected by the Honor Flight board from submitted essays to be a guardian, and is looking forward to accompanying a veteran on a Honor Flight this Fall.
This is her essay entitled, "I Believe in Manicures"
When I was about eight, my grandma took me to get my nails done for the first time. We sat in the massage chairs with our feet soaking in the water while our nails were being painted. My grandma would frequently get her nails done, and so I began to tag along with her every chance we got. Then, when I was about ten, I became involved in extracurriculars. Other things became more important and I didn’t have time to go and get my nails done anymore, or rather I didn’t make the time. I knew my grandma would understand and I always promised her I would go when I was not busy.
Three years ago, my thoughts of waiting for another day to spend time with my grandma changed. In March of 2017, my grandma was diagnosed with bilateral breast cancer. The table had turned and I was not the one that did not have time to spend with my grandma. My grandma’s life became consumed with cancer treatments. Her time for manicures was replaced by weekly doctor’s appointments. I struggled seeing such a strong role model in my life not able to do such a simple thing as getting her nails done.
It was one of the scariest experiences ever, realizing that I may not get as much time in my life as I want with my grandma, or any of my loved ones for that matter. Our time in the nail salon is much more than just getting our nails done. I always make time for my grandma now regardless of how busy my life might be. Right now her doctors feel her cancer treatments have been successful. She has taught me so much, but one of the most important things she has taught me is to spend time with the people you love and be thankful for every day you have with them. The time and experiences you have with your loved ones should not be taken for granted, even if it is spent doing something as simple as getting a manicure. Make time in your busy life for the people you love; make time for manicures.