Lea Nina Cobarrubias: Building Dreams, Overcoming Obstacles, and Making Space for Family
Lea Nina Cobarrubias is a remarkable woman who has turned her dreams into reality despite the many challenges she has faced along her journey. Originally from the Philippines, Lea arrived in the United States with a vision: to provide for her family back home, including supporting her younger siblings through college. “I always wanted to become a doctor,” she recalls, “but my parents couldn’t afford it.” Instead, Lea pursued a degree in physical therapy, navigating the complexities of securing a working visa to practice in the U.S. After 14 years of hard work and dedication, she became a naturalized citizen in 2016, a milestone she proudly cherishes.
Lea’s life is centered around her family. She is a devoted wife to her husband Mark, whom she met in college in the Philippines, and a loving mother to their four children aged 4, 6, 10, and 13. Working as a physical therapist at a local hospital and providing home health services in the community, she has dedicated herself to improving the lives of others. Her passion for caregiving extends beyond her work; Lea and Mark were in the process of establishing an adult foster care home, recognizing the immense need for quality senior care in their community. “I realized that from working in different settings, including nursing homes and private homes. They are one of the most vulnerable populations and they deserve better,” she shares, emphasizing her commitment to those in need.
However, Lea's journey took an unexpected turn earlier this year when she received a diagnosis of ductal carcinoma in situ in her right breast. The news felt like a profound disruption, abruptly interrupting her life and shifting her focus from her family's needs to her own battle with cancer. “I feel like I am a burden to my family,” she admits, as she grapples with the emotional toll of her diagnosis and the physical limitations that accompany it. With the possibility of radiation treatment and another round of surgery for reconstruction looming ahead, Lea's aspirations of opening the adult foster care home have been put on hold. “My life has shifted to one of survival and healing,” she reflects, acknowledging the difficult reality of her situation.
Despite the challenges, Lea maintains a sense of humor and resilience. She recounts her most embarrassing moment at a water park, where she faced a wave ride for the first time. “I felt pretty confident at first until the wave caught me off guard,” she laughs, recalling the chaos that ensued. “I rolled uncontrollably, and by the time I came to a stop, I realized I had flashed the whole crowd!” Her laughter echoes through her story, a testament to her spirit and ability to find joy even in the most trying circumstances.
Lea’s Love Bomb will provide her with the support she needs during this challenging time. “This will allow me to focus on healing and spending quality time with my kids,” she says with gratitude. Lea plans to use this Love Bomb to take a trip to Maine, creating cherished memories with her family amidst the beauty of nature. The Love Bomb represents a lifeline, allowing her to reclaim some of the normalcy that her diagnosis has disrupted. As she continues to navigate the trenches of treatment, Lea’s strength and dedication to her family shine brightly, inspiring all who know her.
Through her story, she exemplifies the resilience of brave and strong women, reminding us that even amidst adversity, hope and love prevail.
