Dennisse… A Common Name with an Uncommon Story!

As the father of a large family, I felt an immediate emotional connection with my Uber passenger, Dennisse. I picked her up outside Golisano Children’s Hospital, where she had been visiting her newborn daughter. The baby was born premature and weighed only two pounds, so she still needed special medical care. Because Dennisse had undergone a C-section, she was still recovering and was clearly uncomfortable as she carefully got into the car.

As you might imagine, her uniquely spelled name caught my attention. Dennisse is pronounced just like “Denise,” but her mother decided to add a little flair with some extra letters. Dennisse explained that her mom had been expecting a boy and had already chosen the name Jeffrey. When a baby girl arrived instead, her mother quickly chose to name her after an aunt who was there at the hospital, giving the name its own special twist.

Dennisse is a hardworking and determined woman. She attended Valencia College and University of Central Florida before earning her degree from Keiser University. Today, she works in the field of pathology, and her husband also has a career in healthcare. Together, they are deeply familiar with the challenges and rewards of medical work.

Recent events have proved challenging for Dennisse, both physically and emotionally. She is balancing a demanding career while caring for a premature newborn daughter, a two-year-old son, and a 19-year-old son she gave birth to when she was just 17 years old. That is a lot for anyone to manage, and yet she continues to move forward with strength and determination. During our conversation, I encouraged her to consider connecting with a church or a faith community that could offer support and encouragement during this demanding season of her life.

Dennisse described herself as a resilient person, and her story truly showed that to be true. It was a pleasure meeting her and hearing about her journey, her family, and her hopes for the future. Please join me in welcoming Dennisse to the Ubernamez family—a woman with a common name and a very uncommon spelling, and a life story that leaves a lasting impression.

PS

Please pray for Dennisse, her daughter and family, as they navigate the challenges and struggles they are facing. I’m hopeful they will come out stronger and more grateful for the blessing of a new life!