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Q: What sparked your love for animals and medicine growing up in Detroit?A. My love for animals and medicine grew together because of my challenging upbringing. My biological mother had a substance abuse problem, and we ended up homeless on the streets a few times. Being on the street and seeing so many unhealthy people and animals asking for help from strangers was eye-opening. To then turn around and see an animal doing the same thing at a young age changes you. I knew I wanted to take care of people and animals who couldn%u2019t help themselves. I wasn%u2019t sure how I would do it at the time, but taking care of animals and being a student-athlete became my outlet.Q: How did your experience as a foster child shape your journey toward becoming a veterinarian?A. I was placed in foster care at eight years old, and I used to get a $20 allowance. I would use this money to buy food for strays. I would hide them in my foster parents%u2019 home and take them to school in my backpack. Everyone knew I would do something with animals. I truly saw them alone and hungry on the streets, unable to fend for themselves, and felt a bond because I knew what it was like to be hungry, alone, and on the streets.MOSTMAGAZINEA lifelong student-athlete, Dr. Burks competed in track and field, where she cultivated a deep appreciation for the human body%u2019s capabilities. Her love for strength, conditioning, and physical rehabilitation naturally extended to her work with animals and later inspired her to pursue bodybuilding. This passion has made her an advocate for both human and animal wellness, blending the principles of fitness and recovery into her practice.Dr. Burks is certified in veterinary acupuncture (CVA) through The Chi Institute, canine rehabilitation therapy (CCRT) through the Canine Rehabilitation Institute, and is currently pursuing certification in small animal veterinary medical manipulation (CVMMP) through the Integrative Veterinary Medical Institute. Her holistic approach ensures that every patient receives personalized care designed to heal, strengthen, and thrive.Dr. Burks%u2019 story is a testament to resilience, compassion, and the power of following your passions. Whether in the gym or the clinic, she continues to inspire others through her dedication to wellness and her unwavering commitment to helping those in need.MOST MAGAZINE - ISSUE 63 77