A year into his studies as a nursing student at Austin Community College, Daniel Bustillos faced the ultimate challenge. He watched his mother lose her battle with liver cancer. Two paths lay before him. He could turn his back on medicine or put his heart into it.
Daniel Bustillos, Completing associate degree in nursing
“It was very tough,” says Bustillos. “But when I felt myself fall to my knees either in frustration or sadness it was my mother’s soothing words and compassion that brought me back to center.”
Bustillos knew he could not give up on his family or school. He now takes care of his two younger brothers while he completes the associate degree in nursing and supports the family as a rehabilitation technician at Dell Children’s Medical Center.
“My mother leaving my side was the biggest challenge I have faced while in the process of completing my degree at ACC and the never ending balancing act of trying to manage life as a 29-year-old.
‘I have skills that can save lives and that is an amazing feeling to have.’
A day at a time, he works passionately to manage his schoolwork and sustain his family.
“I consider myself to be a relatively strong individual,” he says. “I’m one of the top students in my class.”
The friendships he has made in the nursing program have helped him carry on. He graduates in May 2015 and plans to continue his studies to become a family nurse practitioner.
“ACC has instilled in me a confidence I didn’t have prior to becoming a nursing student,” says Bustillos. “I have skills that can save lives and that is an amazing feeling to have.”
While his mother won’t physically be there to see him finish his academic journey, Bustillos knows she will be proud.
Bustillos is a recipient of the Kinnser Software Scholars Program.
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By Susan Thomason September 11, 2014 - 7:53 pm
Daniel,
You are indeed a strong individual and your motivation and passion to succeed are evident in how well you have done in your academic career and in your personal life with your family after your mother’s passing. I believe she is still with you in all that you do. Best of luck
By Aunt Mary September 14, 2014 - 4:31 pm
Daniel,
As proud of you as I know your mom would be if she was still here. But we both know she is watching you from above with that big smile that we all loved and miss. Next May is just around the corner and I can’t hardly wait. Keep up the good work. Love ya, aunt Mary.
By Linda Cox September 14, 2014 - 9:13 pm
That’s fantastic! I’ll be sure to pass your story along to others who need some inspiration to keep going.
By Uncle Fred September 15, 2014 - 8:44 am
Congratulations. Your mother is proud of you. Wish you could instill your outlook on life including your determination to Stephen and Cris.
By Adam September 16, 2014 - 10:30 pm
Inspiring story.
By Jessica September 17, 2014 - 9:46 am
Daniel,
As a fellow nursing student at ACC, I just wanted to say that I admire your resilience. I know how hard it is to endure major life changes and challenges during this program. I mean, really, it’s tough enough as it is. But I can tell that you have the passion and strength to overcome adversity that is going to carry you through no matter what. Hang in there. Nursing needs you! 🙂
Jess
By Adrienne September 27, 2014 - 4:21 pm
Daniel,
I was caught by surprise when I saw your picture and more so to hear about your mom. (I hope you get this message as we met in physiology several semesters ago.) I know your mom is with you know and will always be. Congrats and you are going to make a great nurse! I am truly inspired by your story and it just adds fuel to my drive to never give up on my dream of becoming a Nurse.
By Matthew October 4, 2014 - 5:44 pm
Congratulations!!!