Every time I take the Mulholland Pass, it’s a familiar and beautiful view. The green mountain pass, filled with traffic, somehow has a comforting, familiar feeling. Three months post-op, and a lifetime of surgeries-- I find myself reflecting on this journey. In these final months of change, I was forced to face my ongoing fear of needles, rooted in recent health developments—a fear I had inevitably been avoiding due to my own medical traumas. Over a decade since my last craniofacial surgery, but this time, it felt different. With willingness, excitement, and without fear or expectation, I welcomed this experience. This time, there was empowerment. I felt calm, centered, and truly aligned in both my physical and mental health.
The Westside of LA has always been my home—familiar, safe, and healing. Growing up, the clinic felt sterile, and I often felt muted, shy, timid, and consumed with anxiety. I recall times when my parents had to take time off work, and we’d reschedule procedures because my anxiety consumed my ability to follow through. Memories of specialty dental work, hearing assessments, and therapy paved my journey. Despite my fears, I always had the love and support of my family, and that was what helped me navigate those challenging times. It was during these moments, in the midst of navigating my own health journey, that I first declared my passion for bridging the gap between the medical model and psycho-emotional wellness. I knew from a young age that this would be my path—combining my desire to heal not just the body but also the mind, and supporting others in the process. Summer and winter breaks were often allocated for surgeries to allow time for healing without missing class, and it became a routine—a symbol of my resilience.
This journey has taught me that growth isn’t linear—one day, one decade at a time, we grow into the person we’re meant to be. These months have reminded me to embrace growth, face fear, and confront challenges head-on. It hasn’t always been easy. There were times when I was the sassy, scared little girl—unsure, anxious, and overwhelmed—but over the years, I’ve learned to lean into discomfort rather than run from it.
From the brunette days to the purple-haired rebellious punk rocker, to the sun-kissed California blonde, each of these phases has shaped my journey. They represent the evolution of who I am—a reflection of my transformation, both inside and out. These changes weren’t just about hair color; they were milestones in embracing my identity, navigating my challenges, and redefining myself at each stage of my life.
I’ve learned to be resilient and adaptable. Learning to adjust and work hard are transitions I’ve mastered well. It’s shaped who I am and how I show up today. The self-care and foundational work I’ve invested in has given me the emotional bandwidth to embrace the process of growth. It hasn’t always been easy, but I’ve learned that growth and healing take time.
The support I received from friends during my formative years was nothing short of fundamental. Their unwavering belief in me helped shape the person I’ve become. It taught me the immense value of community—how simply showing up for someone, no matter where they are in their journey, can make all the difference. Their support continues to be a beacon, guiding me as I give back to others, especially those in need of support, within and beyond the craniofacial community. Connecting personally and professionally with the craniofacial community over the past five years has been a pivotal piece of the puzzle I never realized was missing. I am also equally proud to share so much with my broader communities, embracing both aspects of my life fully.
I’ve been fortunate to have positive mentorship that has guided me in my career, creating a supportive environment that aligns with my vision. This support has allowed me to expand my work, fostering both personal and professional growth. I feel empowered to step into my full potential, and it’s a gift I carry forward with me every day.
Today, I stand tall and proud because I worked hard to become the person I am today. I feel accepted because I’ve learned to accept myself. A friend, who has known me through so many stages of growth, recently shared a thought that stuck with me: "You are so dedicated to your work and helping others, but sometimes you hold back when it comes to sharing more about yourself." That simple observation has been a gentle push for me to open up more, to share not just what I do, but who I am, beyond the clinical lens.
Now is the journey, and every step I have taken led me to where I am today—each moment unfolding as part of my ongoing path toward growth and understanding.
With Love,
Vanessa Acero
