Detroit Resident Wins Dream Award from Everest Institute-Dearborn

With no high school diploma or job and dealing drugs to get by, Detroit resident Arthur Grimaldo’s life was going nowhere fast. However, a near brush with death dramatically changed this course, and forced Grimaldo to consider what he wanted most out of life: to make his family proud, have a fulfilling career and the opportunity to give back to his community.

In recognition of his efforts and perseverance, Grimaldo, a graduate of Everest Institute-Dearborn, won the school’s 2013 Dream Award. The award recognizes one graduate who has completed a post-secondary education while overcoming extraordinary challenges. 

Prior to enrolling at Everest, Grimaldo was diagnosed with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, a heart disease known for causing sudden cardiac death in young adults and athletes. In 2011, the condition caused Grimaldo’s heart to completely stop. Fortunately, a pacemaker defibrillator installed in his heart revived him, and when Grimaldo regained consciousness, he knew this was a second chance to turn his life around.

“I promised my son I would become the best man I could be,” Grimaldo said. “This was my chance to finally answer my calling.”

Because of his medical history, Grimaldo had been interested in pursuing a career in the healthcare field for years. While at home recovering, Grimaldo took the first step toward a new life by enrolling at Everest Institute-Dearborn.

Grimaldo faced several obstacles while at Everest. A week before starting, he underwent surgery, which left him nauseous and weak. Further complications continued throughout his coursework. However, with the encouragement of Everest staff and fellow students, Grimaldo persevered and graduated from Everest’s medical assistant program.

After graduation, Grimaldo received a full-time position as a medical assistant at Summit Physicians Group, where he works in the urinalysis and DNA department.

“Arthur is truly deserving of this award and is an inspiration to all of his instructors, classmates and Everest staff,” said Georgianna Bailey, president of Everest Institute-Dearborn. “Though he faced tremendous obstacles, we are very proud of his accomplishments. We congratulate him on winning this award and wish him continued success.”

As a Dream Award winner, Grimaldo will receive a $2,500 Everest scholarship to pursue advanced programs in his field of study.