Over the past decade, six sisters made a vow to chase their dream of becoming nurses despite being homeless. This reality the Lawrence sisters found themselves in began in 2013 when their parents, David and Yonette, lost their home in Queens, New York.
What it meant was that the sisters had to live a nomadic life as they shifted between various family members’ and friends’ residences. Despite the numerous challenges including bumpy and depressing moments that confronted them, the Lawrence sisters remained determined.
But, this determination was anchored on their father’s resolve for the six sisters. Two years into their difficult journey marked by constant relocations, their father, David, made a crucial decision. He was resolute in ensuring their education wasn’t hindered by their situation and encouraged them to keep learning, even amid the hardships of attending traditional schools, according to nurse.org.
As a result, the six older Lawrence sisters, who were in late elementary and middle school, joined a homeschooling program with the aspiration of obtaining their GEDs in the future. Dominique, who is 25 years old, recounted that their father was determined not to let their circumstances impede their education and aspirations.
The resilient Lawrence sisters remained determined and undeterred in their pursuit of education. In 2019, they all achieved their GEDs, marking a significant accomplishment. Following this, they embarked on their educational journey at Nassau Community College on Long Island.
After two years of dedicated effort, they advanced to SUNY Old Westbury, where they graduated with bachelor’s degrees in public health in May. The Lawrence siblings, aged between 19 and 25, recognize that their journey is far from over.
In August, they embarked on a master’s program in public health at SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, with plans to pursue nursing school in the future.
Their story serves as a testament to the resilience and determination of these young women, who, despite a challenging and uncertain childhood, are now on a promising path toward achieving their dreams.
Despite their childhoods marked by instability, they pressed on to realize a long-held dream. Their proud father, David, commended their unity in overcoming life’s challenges, reminding them to adapt and persevere.
