ORANGE, Texas — A baker in Orange refuses to let a diagnoses define her and is competing in the Greatest Baker Competition.
Denise Smith was diagnosed with heart failure last year and told her heart performs at only 45% but she's battled back and she is still baking.
Smith runs her home business Sezer's Cupcake Palace and More.
Now, Smith is a contestant in The Greatest Baker Competition that is hosted by "Cake Boss" Buddy Valastro.
As a competitor, Smith will gain access to an exclusive workshop and Q&A with the Boss himself.
The winning baker walks away with 'The Greatest Baker' title, $10,000, publish their work in Bake from Scratch Magazine and meet Buddy Valastro.
She hopes to win and eventually open a storefront to serve her community even after an enduring loss.
"My brother-in-law, he passed May the 15th of this year, he was my biggest supporter. When I always told him what I couldn't do it, he would push me and tell me that he bet on that never hear me say it," Smith said.
She hopes to use the $10,000 in prize money, not only for her medical bills, but to also continue serving the elderly and contributing to fundraisers.
Originally from Baton Rouge, Smith developed a love for baking from her grandmother who inspired her.
A winner is chosen by the people's votes.
To support Smith, visit the greatest baker website and cast your free daily vote.
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