Had some tough personal issues in M1 that greatly exacerbated my depression and anxiety. Lead to a low Step 1 score <200, and failing both my pediatrics and ob/gyn shelf exams third year.
Went on a leave to remediate my shelf exams and get my mental health stuff treated. Had some other health stuff come up and my LOA kept getting extended. I wasn't sure I'd be able to make it back in time to graduate. Fortunately, with lots of support I fully recovered health wise and successfully remediated my failed shelf exams. Came back in time to finish my remaining rotations and squeezed in all neccesary 4th year things so I could apply for residency with my class and be back on track to graduate. Improved on Step 2 CK (not a good score, but a lot better than my step 1) but failed CS due to lack of study time (lost alot of my alloted 4th year vacation/dedicated study time to make up for my leave) and me underestimating the exam.
Just found out I passed my CS re-take 2 weeks ago and happily matched at my top choice pediatric program.
Could not be more thankful to be matched at a program that I love and on track to graduate with the rest of my class. It's been a tough journey, and I wasn't sure if I'd be able to pull it all off when still on my LOA last year.
If you're struggling, don't be afraid to ask for help and take things one step at a time, you'll get to the finish line. Slow and steady wins the race.
TLDR: Low board scores, 2 failed shelf exams, failed CS, major depression and anxiety, and LOA. Was able to jump back into the class in time to match with support from friends and family. Incredibly thankful and relieved.