Nidia, Hidden Helper Hero Award Winner
April 29, 2023
Nidia, 17, was selected as OMK's second-ever Hidden Helper Hero Award winner as part of the Courageous Kids of 2022 Contest!
Nidia's mother is an U.S. Army Veteran in treatment for toxic exposure-related illness. During this time, Nidia and her younger brother Brian have received OMK activity grants to cover pilates class, martial arts, and gymnastics fees.
Q&A with Nidia
What are your favorite after-school activities and/or hobbies? What do you love about them?
My favorite after-school activities are solving logic puzzles and crocheting. Solving puzzles gives me a sense of accomplishment and boosts my confidence. It makes me feel like I can conquer anything that comes my way. Crocheting, on the other hand, is relaxing and lets me express my creativity. I love that I can create beautiful and unique pieces that reflect my personality and style.
To you, what does it mean to be a military kid?
Being a military kid means being the child of someone who's on active duty in the military. It can be challenging because it involves constantly adapting to new environments, making new friends, and saying goodbye to old ones. However, it also means being part of a community that supports and looks out for each other.
Do you have any advice to other kids with a Veteran parent in recovery?
If you have a Veteran parent in recovery, my advice is to take things one day at a time. It can be challenging to understand everything that's going on, and that's okay. Remember that failure is a natural part of growth, so don't be afraid to make mistakes. Be supportive, patient, and communicate openly with your parent. Seek help and support from friends, family, or a counselor if you need it.
What do you want to be when you grow up?
I have a passion for studying ancient civilizations and cultures and enjoy solving problems, whether they are math problems or puzzles. But more than anything, I want to learn everything and work in multiple fields. I want to absorb as much information as I can and make a positive impact on the world around me.
Nidia's Story
"At the age of 17, most teenagers are focused on their future, exploring their interests and passions, and enjoying the company of friends," said Nidia's father. "However, for our teenage daughter, life has thrown her a curveball that most adults wouldn't be able to handle. Her mother, a combat veteran, was exposed to burn pits during two deployments to Iraq, resulting in cancer which is service-connected to her deployment.
"Despite the devastating news, our teenager shown courage, resilience, and strength that is beyond her years. Nidia has maintained her role as the president of the chess club, has managed to graduate high school six months early, and has been accepted into Rutgers University.
"The journey to this point has not been easy. Watching her mother's health decline has been heart-wrenching. Yet, she has found a way to channel her emotions into positive actions. Her dedication to the chess club has been unwavering, and her passion for the game has helped her cope with the stress of her mother's illness.
"Graduating high school six months early was no small feat. It required discipline, hard work, and a level of focus that few teenagers possess. But this teenager was determined to achieve her goal and did everything in her power to make it happen. And now, with her acceptance into Rutgers University, she has shown that her dreams are bigger than her circumstances. Despite the challenges that lie ahead, she is ready to take on the next chapter of her life with the same courage, resilience, and strength that has brought her this far.
"It's important to acknowledge that Nidia's story is not unique. There are countless children of veterans who have been impacted by their parent's service, whether it be through physical injuries, mental health issues, or other challenges. But Nidia's story is a testament to the human spirit and the power of perseverance."
