By Pinkie Schnayer
Women's History Month is a time to celebrate the courage, determination, and spirit of women who break barriers, defy expectations, and inspire those around them. For me, that celebration is deeply personal, rooted in both my own journey and the woman who raised me.
I played four years of tackle football at Campolindo High School. Competing in a predominantly male sport presented numerous challenges, but it also instilled in me a strong sense of confidence, perseverance, and teamwork. Through this experience, I learned that teammates are far more than just individuals who share the field — they become family. And it is family that motivates me every day.
The woman who inspires me most is my mother. In the summer of 2024, my mom was diagnosed with breast cancer — but let me be the first to tell you, cancer didn't stand a chance against her. Throughout her diagnosis and treatment, she showed incredible strength, resilience, and optimism. Even on her hardest days, she put others before herself and faced everything with grace and unwavering determination. Watching her fight and overcome such a difficult battle taught me what true courage really looks like and continues to inspire me to face my own challenges with the same unwavering spirit.
