As a Sacred Heart Medical Center nurse for 34 years, I’m glad state leaders are finally prioritizing medical education here. The need is immense. While Washington State University plans its future medical school, I worry the state Senate’s budget jeopardizes the University of Washington’s Spokane program that trains students now.

I have seen the impact WWAMI has as a nurse, but I also have a stake in its future as a mother. I am grateful to live in Spokane, where, after emigrating from the Philippines, I met my husband, built my career and raised our daughter, Mara.

Mara, a product of Mead schools and UW, dreamed of becoming a doctor since she was little. She’s exactly the kind of medical student we need in Spokane: dedicated, compassionate and homegrown. After years of perseverance, Mara was admitted to UW’s medical school. She is thrilled WWAMI allows her to study in Eastern Washington, her home, where she hopes to practice family medicine and start her own family.

Mara is excited to begin studying in Spokane this fall as a Husky. More slots are needed for local kids. It would be a shame and disservice to the community if the state’s final budget defunds what UW already has in place.

Maricor Hazeltine

Spokane