In the twenty-fourth episode of Vitals and Voices, we sit down with Yesenia M. Malave — a dedicated Family Nurse Practitioner with a certified specialty in Urology, now pursuing her Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) at the University of Florida. Her journey is a powerful example of resilience, purpose, and the impact of combining clinical expertise with a commitment to patient advocacy.Yesenia’s story begins with a deeply personal experience: a family situation in which early recognition of a myocardial infarction could have made all the difference. That moment ignited her passion for healthcare, motivating her to help others optimize their urological health and achieve better outcomes. Her work is defined by empathy, positivity, and a relentless focus on solutions — especially in challenging situations where patients’ lives are on the line.A key part of Yesenia’s mission is bridging language barriers and educating the Hispanic community. She understands firsthand how communication gaps can directly affect health outcomes, and she works tirelessly to empower patients to take control of their care and make informed decisions.Her journey to this point hasn’t been easy. Navigating the path to becoming a nurse in Florida with a degree from Puerto Rico tested her resilience, but she persevered and built a successful career in clinical practice. Now, as she pursues her DNP, Yesenia reflects on the milestones that shaped her dedication, the challenges that strengthened her resolve, and the vision she carries for her future as a healthcare leader.Throughout our conversation, Yesenia shares what motivates her most: improving patient outcomes, advocating for underserved communities, and ensuring that every person she cares for receives attention, understanding, and quality treatment. Her story is a reminder that healthcare is about more than procedures and protocols — it’s about connection, education, and making a tangible difference in people’s lives.Yesenia’s path is one of determination, empathy, and advocacy — proof that overcoming obstacles, pursuing education, and staying true to your mission can lead to transformative impact in both patients’ lives and the broader healthcare system.