At the age of twenty-five, former actress, kathak dancer and model Sumaira Ahmed got diagnosed with Neuromyelitis optica, also known as NMO, changing the trajectory of her life. An autoimmune disease affecting the central nervous system and causing optic and neural attacks with harsh symptoms, NMO is an incredibly rare disease that alters the lives of those it affects. After being diagnosed, Ahmed found a severe lack of resources, especially mentally, for patients, driving her desire to change the lives of others like her led to the Sumaira Foundation. Using her healthcare background , Ahmed founded the nonprofit as a way to provide resources and mental health support to those with the disease. A true representation of perseverance and determination, Ahmed spoke to Women Who Win intern Naisha Roy about her journey leading the foundation.