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My parents finally decided to separate after 27 years of marriage. We found out my father had a 19-year long affair, which none of knew about. When my dad moved out, the whole family dynamic changed, in a good way. I have never been closer/happier with my family, not including my dad.
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This was my last Mardi Gras Diversity Day during my senior year, very emotional! This is a day where we celebrate individuals with disabilities in our community and promote inclusion through a Mardi Gras themed party! This celebration is what helped me decide my major in Special Education, it has impacted my life so much!
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My younger sister, Dani, was diagnosed with Stage 3 Hodgkin's Lymphoma. This was probably the hardest day of my life. I knew so many people would pity her, but I refused. I kept her positive when she had every reason not to be, we used humor to stick together.
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Once Dani started to lose her hair, I arranged a "shave party". We had all of her close friends and family come over and this is where we all shaved the underneath of our hair and a couple of guys shaved their whole head. At the end, we all took turns shaving her head.
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In May of 2018, I graduated from high school at the top of my class, with a perfect GPA, 4.0. This was a goal I had for myself since middle school.
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I made the big move and started my new journey at Illinois State University. I am originally from Baldwin City, Kansas and live about 7 hours from Bloomington-Normal, Illinois. This is a picture of me with my roommate, who I did not know when we moved in together. She is now one of my best friends!
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After 6 months of rigorous chemotherapy, 3 months of daily radiation, several surgeries, and countless nights in the hospital; her scans were finally clear! I remember getting the call while eating lunch in the dining hall last year, it was probably the happiest moment of my life. This photo was taken on her last day of chemotherapy, I got her teachers and classmates to sign this poster to surprise her!
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I was elected Vice President of Best Buddies for the 2019-2020 academic school year!
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My boyfriend, of 3 years, and I moved into our first apartment this summer! Living with Drew has been such a fun experience, I have learned so much about him and myself this past year.
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I began my job as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT), which is basically a behavioral therapist for young children with autism. I absolutely love my job and it has influenced my career path. I am now getting an early childhood endorsement and plan to go to grad school to get a degree in ABA therapy!
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I got matched with the most amazing buddy this year, her name is Tori! She is just the bundle of joy that my life really needed. I talk to her nearly everyday and she is just the sweetest person I have ever met. I know we are going to be best friends for the rest of my life, I just cannot imagine a week without talking/seeing her.
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I joined Best Buddies here at ISU! This is where I was introduced to so many amazing and inclusive people! I hold them all so close to my heart and they are all my best friends now.
