Today we’d like to introduce you to Haley Diaz.
Hi Haley, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
In 2020, I was diagnosed with POTS (postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome), a form of Dysautonomia. I had just commenced my second semester of PA (physician assistant) school and needed an outlet but also a sense of community navigating my chronic illness and disability. I started connecting with people online through social media and began making stickers and donating a percentage of profits to organizations that supported my newly diagnosed condition and other issues I am passionate about. The Humerus Med launched online in May 2021 and has grown significantly over the course of a year. Together we have been able to launch The Humerus Scholarship for incoming health professional students and donate over $6,000. What started out as small business selling stickers has blossomed into a medical-inspired apparel store with purpose. I am proud to create designs for state societies, raise awareness for various topics, and foster community for chronically ill and disabled medical professionals.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Being a one person entrepreneur is not a smooth road. As the company grew, which I am most grateful for, it became overwhelming at times trying to keep up with sourcing materials, packaging, managing social media, and all the other hats that it takes to run a business. We live in an era where instant gratification is not only present but expected. Amazon and prime shipping does not create realistic expectations for small business when it comes to process and handling.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am the product of Cuban immigrants. I am a first-generation college student and graduate. I have an incredibly strong work ethic and will. Through my disability, I’ve learned how to be empathetic in a way that isn’t taught. It has been quite a humbling experience and I hope to continue to serve others as a medical professional and through The Humerus Med.
What were you like growing up?
When I was five, I wanted to hand out the smiley face stickers at Walmart, my mom told me “No, Haley, you want to own the Walmart.” I think that basically sums up my entire childhood and my personality. I just want to make people laugh and smile. I do things because I enjoy them. When something becomes a hassle for me, I become disinterested. I can work towards things and be disciplined. Not everything is life is going to be fun, there’s going to be struggles, but I feel our life is short and I’m not here for a long time – just a good one. Writing, creating, interviewing, and photographing was a huge part of my childhood. Everyone was surprised when I chose to study biology and psychology in college. Especially because science was not my best subject. But, medicine is the greatest puzzle piece of all time to me…and the biggest art project.
Contact Info:
- Email: thehumerusmed@gmail.com
- Website: https://thehumerusmed.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehumerusmed/
- Other: https://www.instagram.com/thepetitepas/
