#BlackJoyInNeuro is the perfect way to end #BlackInNeuroWeek because joy is what keeps us all going. It reminds us what’s important and why we’re doing what we do.

So MANY things make me joyful
These are the top 5 that keep me sane on this PhD journey:

#1 my husband

He has been there EVERY step of the way. Providing reassurance as I doubted myself submitting grad school apps, driving me to/from lab late at night, making me step back when I’m doing too much, & keeping me going when I want to quit.

He is my rock & the main reason I thrive

He’s so supportive of everything I do. And wrote this on our bathroom mirror at the beginning of the week:

“Happy Black In Neuro week!!! My Black Shero!!!”

#2 my family - meaning biological, Fisk family, lab family, and BlackInNeuro family

All of them play such a huge role in making me who I am while giving so much love & support

I can lean on them and expect good honest advice even when I don’t want to hear it

I especially love the babies in my life

My godson and nephew are EVERYTHING I want to make the world better/safer for them. I want them to see themselves as scientists/doctors/whatever.

And I want them to live. Without fear. Because their lives matter