In our recent interview with Anna Martinez, a determined nursing graduate from Arizona Western College (AWC), she shared her powerful journey of perseverance through overwhelming challenges. Juggling three jobs and navigating an unexpected pregnancy during her studies, Anna could only take a few classes each semester. Yet, despite burnout and moments of doubt, she never gave up.
What kept her grounded was a deep inner drive—she refused to be "a nobody." Instead, she was fueled by a desire to become someone her mother, her children, and most importantly, she herself could be proud of.
Now thriving in her field and recognized as one of the best in what she does, Anna is using her experience to inspire others. She encourages students facing similar struggles to keep pushing forward and never lose sight of their goals. She’s also promoting a new opportunity—the Surgical Technologist program at Onvida Health—as a promising path for those looking to enter the healthcare field.
Anna's story is a testament to grit, growth, and the power of believing in yourself, no matter how tough the road gets.
Onvida Health is a not-for-profit hospital system with 430 inpatient beds, 45 outpatient clinics and a free-standing Emergency Department. The Onvida Health team includes 495 providers representing 52 specialties, 4,000 employees and hundreds of volunteers who work closely together to create a welcoming, caring and compassionate environment for patients and their families. Onvida Health is dedicated to building a healthier tomorrow for Yuma County residents and the surrounding southwestern Arizona communities.
About the Greater Yuma Water Safety Alliance (GYWSA):
Established in the fall of 2023, the Greater Yuma Water Safety Alliance (GYWSA) is a collaborative initiative committed to raising awareness about water safety and reducing the number of drownings in the Yuma community. The alliance brings together a diverse group of partners—including community leaders, healthcare professionals, water safety experts, and public safety representatives—who are united in their mission to promote drowning prevention, water safety education, and emergency preparedness. By developing a consistent water safety message and combining their knowledge and resources, GYWSA is working to build a safer, more informed community.
