Mila Vazquez holds a patriotic cake celebrating her recent acceptance as a United States Citizen. Vazquez is the Director of Physical Therapy at DeKalb Community and Stones River Hospitals.

Physical Therapy Director Mila Vazquez of DeKalb Community and Stones River Hospitals celebrated with friends and co-workers for her recent acceptance as a United States Citizen.

"It has taken me a total of 10 years to make it through the process of becoming a United States Citizen," beams Vazquez, "My daughter has been accepted at the same time and we are looking forward to the formal ceremony in Nashville soon. I definitely do not take my responsibility as an American lightly. It took so much for us to get where we are. This means a great deal to me."

"We are so very happy for Mila and love that she has accomplished so much. She is a wonderful employee, community volunteer, and gives back every chance she gets," said CEO Sue Conley of DeKalb Community and Stones River Hospital.

Vazquez, formally from the Philippines, came to America on a work visa as a physical therapist. She is excited to move forward as an American citizen and encourages others who may feel overwhelmed by the process of citizenship to simply take each challenge one step at a time.