🎨 Art Has Always Been My Outlet—Now It’s My Future

Hi, I’m Daisha Felps, and I’m a proud Sickle Cell warrior. I’ve lived with Sickle Cell Disease since the day I was born, and I’ve faced more obstacles than I can count. One of the biggest challenges I went through was overcoming Parvovirus—it was a scary and difficult experience, but I had the love and support of my family every step of the way, and that helped me heal.

Growing up, I spent a lot of time in the hospital. That made it really hard to live a “normal” childhood—going to school, being active, and joining in with others wasn’t always an option. But I found a way to express myself, stay grounded, and stay hopeful: through art.

✏️ My Passion Is Drawing

I’ve been drawing since I was nine years old, and it’s been my passion ever since. Over the years, I’ve worked hard to improve my skills, and now I dream of turning that passion into a career in the art world—one where I can make a difference by creating pieces that reflect love, healing, and meaning.

I also want to expand my skills into 2D animation, where I can bring my artwork to life and tell stories that connect with people. Art has helped me through so many hard times, and I want to use it to inspire and encourage others.

🎓 What This Scholarship Means to Me

Winning the Warrior On The Rise Scholarship means so much to me. It’s not just about funding my education—it’s about being seen, supported, and believed in.

This scholarship gives me the opportunity to keep growing as an artist and to pursue what I’m most talented at. It’s helping me build a future where my creativity can shine, and where I can give back through the thing I love most.

🌟 Help Future Artists and Warriors Rise

I’m honored to be one of 27 Warrior On The Rise Scholarship recipients this year, more than double the number awarded in previous years. This incredible growth is only possible because of donors like you, who choose to invest in students like me—students who have overcome so much and are determined to rise.

By supporting the Warrior On The Rise Scholarship Fund, you’re helping young warriors turn their passion into purpose.

Thank you for helping me pursue mine.

— Daisha