We had the good fortune of connecting with Deana Martinez and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Deana, let’s talk legacy – what do you want yours to be?
I aspire to be remembered as a resilient fighter—someone who embodies perseverance and never gives up, no matter the challenges faced. Each day, I strive to live fully, embracing life as if it were my last. I make it a priority to begin and end each day with a smile, focusing on the positive aspects of my circumstances.

Despite being diagnosed with two different types of cancer and a brain tumor, I remain committed to finding the silver lining in every situation. My hope is that others will look to me as a source of inspiration, recognizing that life’s journey encompasses both highs and lows. I want my legacy to reflect the belief that we should cherish every moment, celebrating both the good and the bad, as we navigate the complexities of life.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
After my husband was diagnosed with congestive heart failure and informed that he would need a heart transplant, our lives changed dramatically. With his inability to work, I took on two to three jobs to support our family. My days began at 6 a.m. and often extended until 1 a.m. the following morning. During this challenging time, I was also diagnosed with cancer and a brain tumor. Despite these obstacles, my determination to fight for my family remained steadfast.

I yearned to create memorable experiences for my children, taking them to dinner, visiting theme parks, and embarking on adventures together. However, financial constraints made this difficult. In a moment of inspiration, I considered becoming an influencer, hoping that sponsorships could provide the support we needed.

With perseverance and, by the grace of God, my efforts were rewarded. Becoming an influencer not only created a secondary income but also opened doors to sponsorships that alleviated the need for my second job, allowing me to return home to my family sooner. While our health challenges persist, we are now able to enjoy sponsored trips, creating cherished memories with our children that will last a lifetime.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
With a myriad of adventures and destinations to explore, I often find that I prefer the comfort of home. My best friend understands the value I place on time spent with loved ones and the importance of meaningful connections. She knows that sharing a home cooked meal, enjoying a good television show, and engaging in board games would be the most fulfilling way to spend time together. These simple yet heartfelt moments truly bring me joy.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to my children. They are a constant source of support and encouragement, often offering hugs when I need them most, without even needing to ask what’s wrong. Their unwavering belief in me, encapsulated in their simple yet powerful encouragement of “You’ve got this,” inspires me to keep fighting; not just for them, but for the greater world around us.

Their resilience and positivity motivate me to persevere through each day, and I can truly say they are the reason I am still here. I am incredibly fortunate to have them as my number one supporters and cheerleaders. Their love and encouragement mean the world to me.

Instagram: https://www.Instagram.com/happy_family_adventures

Image Credits
Image Credit: f/8 studios Long Beach

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