Greetings! My name is Samyra Bonds and I am 22 years old. I was born and raised in Beaufort, SC on Saint Helena Island. At the age of 17, in 2017, I graduated from Beaufort High School a year early and furthered my education at the University of South Carolina- Columbia. During my spring semester, in 2019, I experienced a tragic loss. I lost my father to prostate cancer and it altered my mental health. This heart-breaking event made me realize I needed to be back home surrounded by my loved ones. In Fall 2019, I transferred to the University of South Carolina – Beaufort to resume my education. I began experiencing some academic difficulties, but I didn’t allow it to consume me. I persevered through school while carrying the hurt of losing my father, and I accomplished my goal. In December 2020, I graduated from the University of South Carolina- Beaufort with my Bachelor of Science in Biology. My ultimate life goal is to become a Doctor and I will not stop until I obtain “Dr.” in front of my name. 

 

     After graduating, I made the decision to take a break from schooling, it was needed. Instead of immediately applying for medical school, I decided to focus more on my mental health and life goals. I’ve struggled with mental health issues most of my life, but it was not until I lost my father that recognized my issues. The loss of my father helped unveil my life’s purpose. I now understand that my story must be told, and I know I am not alone. 

 

    Like so many others, I’ve struggled with depression, low self-esteem and suicidal ideations. Bonds & Breakthroughs was established to help individuals break through the barriers of cognitive illnesses and bring awareness to their mental health.