Rosemarie Sintos Ababon is an upbeat 32-year-old Filipina expat working at one of the busiest nail salons in Abu Dhabi Mall. Despite her nearly omnipresent smile, Ababon is battling an aggressive breast cancer diagnosis. This diagnosis, however, does not affect her spirit and motivation to work. 

"I dont entertain the idea that I'm sick. I don't like to feel unproductive" Ababon tells Gulf News. While she has suffered side effects of chemo like damaged veins, bone pain, and hair loss, she refuses to let it prevent her from working. Her one request of her employer was the be allowed to cover her head with a scarf that matched her uniform. Her employer was supportive and obliged.

For more on Ababon's story and persistence, click here.