Personal Journey & Overcoming Obstacles - The speaker harbored a secret dream of becoming a doctor since childhood, facing self-doubt and perceived age limitations [1][2][3][5] - A chance encounter with a stranger reignited the speaker's dream, leading to the pursuit of medical school later in life [4][6][7] - The speaker faced discouragement from family and professional contacts, including a boss who refused to write a letter of recommendation [15][16] - Despite initial rejection from medical school, the speaker persevered, improved their application, and was eventually accepted at the age of 43 [16] Medical Education & Career - The speaker pursued a BS degree in medical technology and worked in a hospital lab for 23 years before deciding to apply to medical school [6] - The speaker took a biochemistry course to prepare for the challenges of medical school after being out of college for 20 years [12][16] - The speaker graduated with a medical degree in May 2001 after four years of study [16] - The speaker now practices medicine, fulfilling their lifelong secret dream [4][16] Statistics & Impact - Between 2000 and 2020, out of over 375,000 people matriculating in US medical schools, only 1,143 (03%) were over 40, and the speaker was one of them [16] - The speaker emphasizes the often-unrealized impact individuals have on others' lives, referencing the stranger who encouraged them to pursue their dream [16]