A Lifelong Battle with a Rare Eye Cancer

Embark on an inspiring 18-minute journey as Mari Ismail shares her powerful story of resilience and triumph over a rare eye cancer at TEDxEmory. Follow her path from a misdiagnosed childhood disability to confronting a life-threatening malignancy, navigating complex treatments, and overcoming academic challenges. Witness how Mari's unwavering optimism and determination propel her through physical and emotional hurdles, maintaining academic excellence while advocating for disability services. Gain insights into the transformative power of hope and mindset in facing life's most daunting obstacles. Learn about Mari's background as a first-generation Somali-American, her academic pursuits in Religion and Italian Studies at Emory University, and her involvement in various campus organizations. Discover how her experiences have shaped her mission to serve marginalized communities and her aspirations for a career in law. Be inspired by Mari's remarkable journey of perseverance, advocacy, and the indomitable human spirit in the face of adversity.