Posted: 6/12/2008
Marla Fisher graduated from Brown Mackie College - Louisville in 2007 with two associate's degrees, one in Business Technology and one in Accounting Technology. Marla never missed a class while studying in the programs. Being determined to succeed, she completed each program four months ahead of schedule. Her academic record does not speak to the enormous difficulties she faced during her college career.
Shortly after beginning classes, Marla received a diagnosis of cancer and a grim prediction that she had only two months to live. She firmly told her doctor that she intended to finish college and she would invite him to the graduation ceremony in two years.
That's exactly what Marla did. She cared for her two children and worked full time while attending classes and receiving treatment. In addition, she helped care for her mother who suffers from muscular dystrophy and makes frequent trips to the hospital. "There were countless nights of taking Mom to the hospital, coming home to get the kids up for school before going off to work, and then to classes," said Marla. Despite being extremely tired, Marla showed up for class, sometimes standing in back of the class because it was too painful to sit.
Marla depended on humor from the start. She participated in one class that included all female students and one male. "We called him 'Lisa" so he wouldn't feel left out," said Marla. Once when the male student (Lisa) realized that it had been days since he had seen Marla smile, he came to class dressed as a woman, complete with a pink wig and high heels. "I'll never forget what he did to help me forget my pain," Marla said, laughing.
Marla earned her degrees with both her mother and her doctor in the audience. She also received the Brown Mackie College - Louisville Inspiration Award, given in recognition of her determination to succeed despite great obstacles. "I had no idea the award was coming," Marla said. "I thought the tear festival was over, but what do you do when you realize your wildest dreams have come true?"
The cancer center staff features Marla's photo, award, and degrees on an Inspiration Wall at the facility. It serves as a reminder to others that cancer need not stop anyone from achieving their goals. Tammy Klette, Academic Student Advisor at Brown Mackie College, frequently shares Marla's success with students who feel defeated. Marla often returns to school to speak with students and she is a regular speaker at orientation sessions.
"I tell students to find someone in their degree program on the first day," Marla said. "If that person misses class, you call to find out why. One person can give someone else strength. I give the students my cell phone number, too. They can call me anytime. I'll give them reasons why they can."
"The staff at Brown Mackie College - Louisville and the friends I made there, gave me strength. They all mean the world to me. That's why I continue to go back and do what I can do for everyone there," said Marla.
Personal Attention, Professional Growth
www.brownmackie.edu