Rising Through It All: A Tale of Heart and Hustle (My introductory post)

"Strong, Independent Woman".💃
Wow! What a powerful statement!
These are the words I really often hear from my family, my colleagues, my friends, and even from other people whom I don't even know personally. Honestly, I take great pride in holding that 'title.' To me, being strong means standing firm—especially because I am a single mother of two kids.
This title is more than just a label; it reflects who I am and the kind of example I wish to set for my children. It serves as a reminder that love, bravery, and an unwavering spirit are the foundations of strength and independence, which are developed day by day.

Hi there! Floressa Merced Espinosa Malana is my name. It's a bit of a long name. You can simply call me "Lang" for short. I am a Medical Technologist by profession but a full-time warrior at heart. I’m truly grateful to have found this little corner of the internet where I can share bits of my life—and maybe overshare just a little (but in a classy way, of course). My hope is that you’ll take something meaningful from what I share—just as I look forward to discovering and learning from your own stories, too.

SNAPSHOTS OF THE REAL ME

Life has been an insane roller coaster at 47, with many twists and unexpected turns, much like the movie "Up". I was raised by my grandparents rather than by my parents. My parents have been separated since I was five years old, so I grew up knowing that family isn't always what you anticipate. I have experienced every possible emotion, from nasty crying to outbursts of laughter. However, my grandparents' love is the one thing that always makes me feel better, if you will. To be honest, that love has helped me become the strong woman I am today and is like my own happy place.

I’m an only child raised by my amazing grandparents after my parents separated when I was young. I have always know that my parents put forth a great deal of effort to provide me with a good future, and their love for me has never faltered in sit of the difficulties they encountered, even when life took an unexpected turn. Both of them have always been role models for me: my "Mama AL" , a strong and feisty woman instilled in me the importance of independence and strength while reminding me to maintain to be humble no matter what I accomplish in life. My "Papa Rey" is my cool, caring hero, and his warmth has always been a constant source of solace. My grandparents,"Mamang Glo and Papang Lando" however, are my real superheroes. They shaped me into the woman I am today by with LOVE, KINDNESS and RESPECT. My heart and strength are built on their guidance and encouragement.
Although my parents / grandparents never put any pressure on me, I always felt that being an achiever in school was the least I could do for them, so I did. During my high school years, I received honors and good marks most of the time, which served as academic affirmation.

Turning lab work into life-saving answers. Proud to be a MedTech

In 2000, I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology from Notre Dame of Marbel University and passed the licensure exam on my first attempt. That same year, I began my career as a medical technologist, working in hospitals and clinics both in the Philippines and abroad. Over the years, I’ve performed thousands of lab tests, turning my work into a true purpose fueled by passion, perseverance, and a commitment to making a difference.
Looking back, I realize that every test passed and every patient helped was a step toward becoming the strong, independent woman I am today. A woman who knows that no matter where life takes you, you can overcome it and create a meaningful, hopeful life with love and commitment.
I lost my mom in 2003 when I was just 22 years old and already a young mother myself. She passed away from complications related to Diabetes Mellitus, and with her loss came a pain so deep, it felt like a part of me was being torn away. But life didn’t stop, and I had to find the strength to keep going for my one-year-old son who depended on me. Then, in 2020, I lost my hero—my dad—to pulmonary cancer. That loss cast a heavy shadow over my world, even though I had found some stability by then. Living life without both my parents has been incredibly hard, but their love and lessons continue to guide me every day.
My journey hasn’t been defined by just one role. While I began as a proud Medical Technologist, my path expanded far beyond the lab. I served as a government employee at PhilHealth, took on the fast-paced world of pharmaceutical sales as a Medical Representative for Zuellig Pharma Corporation, and even stepped into the digital space as a Virtual Assistant.

MY REASON, MY RHYTHM, AND MY GREATEST REWARD

One thing stayed the same despite the challenges and lessons that each role brought: my desire to give my kids the greatest life possible. You can't afford to give up when you're a single mother. Even on the days when it seems impossible, you persevere, balance innumerable obligations, and wear numerous hats.
Every job I chose was a step toward creating a stable, dignified, and hopeful existence for my family—not just a profession. Success, I've discovered, it is not about following a single path; rather, it's about having the guts to try, the fortitude to adjust, and the perseverance to keep going—especially when you're doing it for the people who call you "Mama."

HELPING OTHERS SPEAK ENGLISH - LOVING EVERY MOMENT 💬✨

I still proudly and intentionally wear many hats today. Our very own Drug Testing Center is where I work as a Medical Technologist and Drug Analyst, a milestone that serves as a daily reminder of my progress. It's more than simply a job; it's a dream come true by perseverance, faith, and hard work.
As the day comes to an end, I start my second job, which is teaching English to Chinese students in the evenings as an ESL teacher. It's an entirely different world, yet just as rewarding. I'm reminded that teaching and learning have no bounds when I get to know kids from different cultures and support their development.

I FIND JOY IN BEING WITH THEM, AND PURPOSE IN REACHING OUT TO THEM

My community members are more than just acquaintances or neighbors; they are a part of who I am. There is a unique tie that endures even though we don't always get to see one another. Just spending time with them, exchanging tales, smiles, and meaningful moments brings me true joy.These small actions, like reaching out, helping, or simply being there, give me meaning. I get a subtle sense of satisfaction from knowing that I've brightened or lightened someone else's day.
Community, to me, is about caring, compassion, and connection. I feel more rooted there. I feel at home there.

SOME LEAVE FOOTPRINTS ON YOUR SOUL

We all have friends. And yes—if you know me, you know I have many. But among them, there are those rare, handpicked souls who hold a deeper place in my heart. The people in the photos above? They’re not just friends. They’re pieces of my story.

Each one is different—different personalities, journeys, and kinds of love—but all have stood by me, wholeheartedly and unconditionally. There’s my cousin by blood, family from birth, and another cousin, not by blood but like a sister, always just one call away during my hardest days. A college classmate has been close through life’s challenges, and my high school buddy remains part of our forever group, DAMBEL'S — our bond still strong. Another woman, not related by blood, is a true sister with unshakable loyalty. And a dear friend whose sincere heart makes it feel like we’ve known each other forever — one of the few who’ll never walk away. And finally, there’s my life partner. For the past five years, she has not only loved me, but has deeply embraced my children as her own. She’s responsible, nurturing, and everything I could ever ask for in a partner. Her love is quiet but fierce, and it grounds me.
These beautiful souls may have come into my life in different seasons and ways, but they all share something in common: they love me deeply, they stand by me firmly, and they’ve become a permanent part of my journey.
I don’t need a big crowd. I just need them—because with them, I already have everything.

Today, I stand proud in the home I built for my two children—a symbol of hope, strength, and relentless determination. Every nail, every wall, every corner holds the story of late nights, hard work, and unwavering faith in a better tomorrow. Life has thrown its toughest challenges my way, but I chose to rise above them, not just for myself, but for the bright future of my children.

This home is more than just a place to live—it’s proof that no matter how hard life gets, we have the power to rebuild, to create, and to thrive. It’s a reminder that resilience and love can move mountains, and that with courage and commitment, we can turn dreams into reality.

If life knocks you down, remember: you have the strength to get back up and build something beautiful from the ashes.

When I read @Antonette’s post about this platform, I was drawn to the freedom of expression it offers. She kindly guided me through the community’s values and rules, helping me get started.
As someone who finds clarity in writing, I’m excited to share my thoughts and connect with like-minded people here. I’m committed to following the rules, especially about creating original content without AI.
Everything I share reflects my true experiences and feelings. The photos are personal moments, creatively enhanced with Canva—blending honesty with storytelling. I look forward to growing with this community!

Let’s light this space with stories that matter, moments that heal, and words that uplift. I’m excited to share this journey with you. Thank you for reading-I’m so glad you stopped by!💛❤️💚

All photos were edited by Canva