My name is Daniel Peraza Garzon, and I am honored to be a recipient of the Billi Odegaard Nursing Scholarship, a valuable opportunity that will empower me to prioritize my education. As a future nurse I am drawn to emergency medicine and trauma, where I aspire to make a lasting impact on the lives of those in critical need.

Originally from Sinaloa, Mexico, I’ve called the Portland area home since the age of 3. Blending Mexican upbringing with American influence, my bilingual and bicultural background positions me to connect with patients authentically. Through my lived experiences, I am passionate about bridging potential gaps caused by language barriers and the disconnect that can come with interpreters. Understanding the cultural intricacies within my community enables me to assist patients in navigating the often difficult healthcare field and ensure fewer barriers to accessibility.

Over the past 6 years, I’ve served as a Direct Support Professional for individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD). My experience in this role has allowed me to further understand and address the specific needs of this community. I have taken a proactive role in collaborating with families and medical professionals to develop tailored plans that ensure the best care for the individuals I assist. Recognizing the lack of specialized training for serving this population, I am determined to pioneer training initiatives within the medical field that enhance the overall quality of care for the IDD community. Furthermore, my acquired de-escalation skills and Oregon Intervention System (OIS) certification will be essential for maintaining safety during challenging situations.

In my free time I enjoy photography and spending quality time with friends and family. My passion for photography has empowered me to document my life and that of my friends, highlighting our growth together over the past 10 years. With the generous support of the Billi Odegaard Nursing Scholarship, I look forward to continuing my journey in nursing and advancing Billi Odegaard’s legacy of enhancing healthcare accessibility and quality in Oregon and beyond.