Norma is a passionate entrepreneur who poured her heart into starting her own business, Pan Dulce/Conchas, bringing the warmth of traditional Mexican bread to her community. But turning her dream into reality came at a cost—she had to leave her full-time job, losing the health insurance that came with it.

For two long years, Norma faced an agonizing choice: prioritize her health or keep her business afloat. Every doctor’s visit, every prescription, and every follow-up appointment with specialists came straight out of her pocket. She often delayed care, hoping minor issues wouldn’t turn into something worse.

Then, in 2024, everything changed. Norma learned that as a Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipient, she was finally eligible for health insurance. While some states cruelly blocked this new opportunity, North Carolina did not.

Health Insurance Navigator Rodrigo Medinilla Corzo helped Norma with the sign-up process. He states: “Our job as navigators is to help you invest your time in the projects you are passionate about and reduce the risks of a financial collapse due to illness or accident.”

For the first time in years, Norma could breathe easier—knowing she wouldn’t have to choose between her health and her livelihood.

“Knowing that I have health insurance gives me the confidence to keep working to grow my business,” Norma shares.

Now, with the security of health coverage, Norma can focus on what she does best: growing her business, serving her community, and creating a better future for herself and others.