Every time someone says I have a talent for baking, my mind reflects back on how I was able to achieve a goal from something as simple as baking a cake.
My skill all started when I received an Easy Bake Oven. It didn’t take long to discover the potential inside those tiny envelopes. Every moment was spent experimenting and creating masterpieces. Good days were celebrated with cake lathered in frosting, and bad days were no exception to the rule. Food became the reward that vindicated the wrong and celebrated the good.
I was oblivious to the number on the scale, and ignored the screams coming from my body. My days became filled with agonizing pain, and doctor visits consumed my life. I ended up needing two major surgeries and a harsh realization followed when I met the surgeon.
Tests revealed diet was the culprit and could lead to more serious medical problems. Days would go by without creating a crumb, and other day’s dinner was sacrificed for cake. It became an internal battle that needed conquering. Unfortunately, it took a dreadful event to put things in perspective and reach my goal of both eating healthier and helping someone in need.
A local two- year- old had aggressive cancer. Although I had never met this family, I set a goal to help them out. I decided to bake items to be auctioned off at my schools fundraising event and donate the proceeds to the boy’s family. And that is how “Cakes for Cancer” began.
I wanted these cakes to be spectacular that they warranted high bids, and they did selling at $560. I then presented the money to the family at the hospital. It was the most gratifying moment in my life. Nothing could compare to what this little boy and his family were going through.
I realized that junk food was an excuse that allowed me to justify my emotions. I lacked the courage to stop my own self-defeating behaviours. Achieving my goal of helping this family sparked a period of powerful personal growth because it forced me to examine my values, priorities and my own health. I realized that my talent for baking was a gift to share. Cakes for Cancer are a way for me to continue my passion and raise money for those kids who may never get a chance to bake a cake.
- Tell us about yourself.
My name is Ellona Gehman and I live in a very small town called Fallon, located in Nevada. I moved here when I was younger. It was a big change for me coming from New York. I like to keep busy and currently go to college full time, work three jobs and run Cakes for Cancer. I’m a Certified Nursing Assistant providing in-home care to an elderly woman, tutor at the local college and nanny for a two-year old. I try to live my life putting service above self.
- What has been your best experience in school?
My best experience is being in a dual-enrollment program at my high school. It has given me the opportunity to take college classes and be exposed to college life. This program has allowed me to get a college degree at the same time as I earn my high school diploma.
- What influenced your choice in major?
I realized the vital role of nursing after becoming sick and having to undergo several medical tests and having two major surgeries. Nurses play a critical role in helping people during a difficult time. It solidified my desire to become a nurse and help others like I was helped. I knew my goal was to work in Pediatric Oncology after starting “Cakes for Cancer” and meeting children dealing with cancer, and being exposed to the realities of cancer.
- How do you envision yourself in 5 years?
Working as a Pediatric Oncology Nurse at a hospital dedicated to children’s cancer. I also want to be engaged in research opportunities geared at finding the causes and cure for childhood cancers.
- What do you hope to learn from your school experience?
I want to learn everything I can about the medical field so I’m well prepared to be a great nurse. I hope to meet lots of new people and be exposed to a wide variety of opinions, views and beliefs. I think it’s important to develop an awareness and appreciation of all kinds of people in order to be a compassionate, caring nurse.
- What extracurricular activities do you enjoy?
I love traveling and meeting new people, and learning about different cultures. I also enjoy baking in my free time for my family, but mostly for fundraising to help children with cancer and their families. In addition, I’m a make-up fanatic and have a large collection. Crafting and watching movies are some of my other favorite activities.
