STORIES

We all have stories about good times and bad, how we've found purpose in our careers, how we've managed to make an impact within our communities, how we’ve struggled to find answers where there were none, overcome adversities and heartaches, and discovered the secrets to some of our life’s greatest joys.

Sharing Stories: Discover the Power of Community

The following are just a few of the everyday heroes who have touching stories. Although the circumstances of their lives vary, the one aspect they all have in common is that they provide insightful lessons that can empower others who may be experiencing the same situation.

Mom of Two

"As a mom to two autistic kids with ADHD, I am always trying to spread awareness and make the world a better place for families like mine. Acceptance is the key to unlocking the potential in every person. When my oldest was first diagnosed I felt like I was going through this journey alone, I didn’t know how to navigate the school system or what therapies he should get, let alone how to parent. When we my daughter was diagnosed I knew a little more about what I was doing this time around. I think it’s important to remember it will be okay and the rest of the world may not understand all of the time, don’t let that get you down or discourage you. Keep doing the best you can for you and your child! Your babies deserve space too. Let your kiddo stim in the grocery store, bring the tablet into the restaurant, don’t be afraid to ask for accommodations and never stop advocating for your baby. Autistic people see the world in a unique way, that’s something to learn about and embrace, always, even if everyone else doesn’t know that yet.

Autism doesn’t come with an instruction guide. It comes with a family that never gives up."

-@mamaofboth27

Paraprofessional to Special Education Teacher

"I started in education as a paraprofessional and was unexpectedly placed in a special education classroom. At first, I was overwhelmed and unsure if I could handle it, but I quickly realized how much these kids needed someone to believe in them. Seeing their growth and resilience inspired me to step up and do my best for them. I wanted to create a space where kids with disabilities felt safe and capable of achieving anything. That experience sparked a passion for special education I didn’t know I had. Now, at 24, I’m proud to be teaching and making a difference for my students every day." -@nicolebops

3rd Grade Teacher

"As a minority, I didn't see people who look like me in positions of authority or leadership when I was growing up. I wanted to become a teacher to provide the representation and advocacy for students who might not see themselves in the classrooms. I believe that it's important for all students to have a role model who reflects their diverse experiences."

Crohn's Disease

“I want people to know that even though they may have a physical or mental condition, that they can go on to living thrilling enriched lives.  That a diagnosis isn’t the end, it’s just the beginning.  I didn’t know when I was eight what to expect.. at that time I thought my Crohns would limit me a lot in life.  At that time I was shy and didn’t know that a lot of people go through similiar health struggles.  Now I know that I am not alone.  That everyone with a health condition has support and is able live a life filled with priceless memories.  

For instance, not even a year into having my ostomy, I got my skydiving license and I’ve done a total of 143 jumps, and I plan to do a Hyrox fitness race in 2025!  My ostomy brought me freedom to have my health back and now I have such a valuable outlook on how precious life is.  Crohn's taught me at 8 years old to never judge others because we have no idea what they are going through. It taught me to be really compassionate and understanding at a young age.  That was a gift to be able to learn that so early in life.”