When Tianna Gates-Julien gets an opportunity to talk about things that impact her life, she mentions family, friends, career plans and some special people who helped her on that December day in 2012.

It has been two years since Gates-Julien recalls an episode where didn't feel well after a high school exam, struggled catching her breath and went to Brampton Civic Hospital where doctors determined she had a bronchial spasm and she was treated for asthma.

Since then, she carries several puffers – just in case she needs them.

"I remember that day very well, thought I was going to die," said the now 20-year old. "My heart beat was very high, I was scared and the people at the hospital were great. I'll never forget them."

Gates-Julien is now a second year student in culinary management at Toronto's George Brown College with plans down the road to be a personal chef, a restaurant consultant or a dietician.

"I‘ve always wanted to be a chef and George Brown was my top choice," she said. "The program is great and I really like what I have been able to learn."

And she's also playing for the college women's basketball team – something she didn't do last year when the focus was on getting a great start to her college education.

Basketball has been special to her – whether it was the 10 years with the Brampton Warriors organization and being a member of three Basketball Ontario championship teams or in high school.

At Richview Collegiate, she won silver and bronze medals in triple jump and 200 metres respectively at the Toronto District School Board citywide track and field finals. But, the sport of basketball was dear to her heart – and chosen most valuable player as a shooting guard in Grade 9.

She finished her high school education at Bramalea Secondary School, having moved to Brampton, Ont., needing one credit.

"I missed (basketball) in my first year at George Brown and didn't want to go to games because it was tough not being active and on the team," said Gates-Julien, the oldest of eight in her family.

"Now, I can adjust school work and basketball. I tried out and made the team, played in pre-season and the only game I missed was because of an asthma problem."

Gates-Julien has a positive philosophy on her future.

"Put in the work and effort - and I'll be where I want to be," she said.

Source: George Brown College