We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Shannon Battle a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Shannon , looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you open up about a risk you’ve taken – what it was like taking that risk, why you took the risk and how it turned out?

One of the most significant risks I ever took was deciding to temporarily drop out of school to care for my mom when she was told she had 6 months to live after being diagnosed with small cell lung cancer. At the time, I was not only focused on my education and career but was also pregnant. The diagnosis was devastating, and I knew my mom needed constant care and support during her final days.

Choosing to step away from school was a huge risk. I worried about losing momentum, falling behind, and how this would affect my future, especially with a baby on the way. But I made my mom a promise: I would finish what I started that I would pursue my dreams even after this difficult time.

Becoming her primary caregiver was emotionally and physically challenging. I managed her medications, appointments, and provided comfort through her illness, all while preparing to welcome my own child into the world. That experience taught me invaluable lessons about compassion, resilience, and the true meaning of healthcare.

Though I had to pause my academic journey, this time with my mom deepened my empathy and strengthened my commitment to becoming a physician who understands patients and families facing serious situations firsthand. Today, I’m proud to say I’m on my way to medical school, honoring the promise I made to her and fueled by the love and strength she gave me.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I’ve been through a lot on my path to becoming a doctor, and that journey has shaped who I am today. I made a promise to my mom and ultimately to myself that no matter what, I would finish what I started and follow my dream.

My book, From Playtime to Patients: Maya’s Journey to Becoming a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine, is inspired by my own story. Maya is a joyful, determined young girl who dreams big, just like I did as a child. Through her, I want to show kids especially those who may feel underestimated that with dedication and heart, they can achieve their dreams.

Professionally, I’m a Senior Epic Applications Analyst pursuing my MPH while preparing for medical school. My experience in healthcare technology and public health gives me a broad, compassionate perspective on patient care.

What I want people to know about me and my work is that I’m passionate about inspiring others and making a difference in healthcare through storytelling, technology, and ultimately as a physician.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

One story that truly illustrates my resilience is when my mom was diagnosed with small cell lung cancer. At that time, I was pregnant and in school, working toward my dreams, with children who depended on me. When her illness progressed, I made the difficult decision to temporarily leave school and become her primary caregiver.

During that period, I lost a lot; time, stability, and many things I had worked hard to build. It was an incredibly painful and uncertain time, but I knew my kids depended on me, so I had to stay strong for them and for my family. Even in the midst of loss, I held on tightly to a promise I made to my mom and to myself: that I would finish what I started and pursue my dream of becoming a doctor.

That promise became my anchor. Though my path took unexpected and difficult turns, I stayed committed to moving forward. The experience deepened my compassion, strengthened my resolve, and fueled my passion for medicine. Today, I’m proud to say I’m on my way to medical school, driven by the love and lessons I gained during that journey.

Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?

A lesson I had to unlearn was the belief that life has to go according to plan and that I was getting too old to pursue my dreams. Growing up, I always wanted to be a doctor, but life took me on a different path for a long time. I had kids, faced challenges like caring for my terminally ill mom, family issues, balanced work and school. At times, I felt like my timeline was off that maybe I’d missed my chance.

But over time, I realized that life rarely goes exactly as planned, and that’s okay. The detours, delays, and unexpected challenges don’t mean it’s too late to chase your dreams. In fact, they can make you stronger, more compassionate, and more determined.

This lesson gave me permission to keep moving forward, no matter my age or circumstances. It’s one reason I’m proud to say I’m on my way to medical school now, fulfilling a dream that’s been with me since childhood just on my own unique timeline.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://shanbattle.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/playtimetopatients/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577963830255
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shanthedo/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PKryznrWAuQ&list=RDPKryznrWAuQ&start_radio=1