I know it’s been a while since I’ve posted anything, but I
guess we’ve just been so busy with life, that I haven’t had time for a
check-in, but I think this information deserves a little sharing.
The following letter was written by MacKenzie’s school counselor
to nominate her for our town’s Youth Hall of Fame Award. I think her words capture
how well MacKenzie is doing and the growth she has made, especially this year.
To
Whom It May Concern,
It
is my honor and privilege to nominate MacKenzie for the [Town] Youth Hall of
Fame Award. I am nominating her for this honor because of her tenacity,
strength and perseverance. She is an extraordinary young woman who has learned
the meaning of hard work and dedication.
MacKenzie
started high school just like every other peer in her class, eager, nervous and
excited for this new beginning. Shortly into high school, MacKenzie began to
struggle with depression and anxiety; a battle that MacKenzie was determined to
overcome and fight. Along her high school journey, she struggled to maintain
her mental health but never lost sight of her goals and aspirations. Her future
goals kept her fighting, seeking out support and using the skill she learned to
conquer. As a junior MacKenzie began the Cosmetology program at [BOCES] and
accelerated quickly in the program, she gained confidence, poise and more
determination than ever before. Today she stands tall and proud of her
accomplishments. She is mature, self-reflective and independent. For her senior
project, she will be presenting on her mental health struggles highlighting
resources for other students.
It
has been a journey for MacKenzie that I am proud I was able to witness. The strength
and determination this young woman has is remarkable. She is a fighter and
after graduation this year she will no doubt go on to do great things. I feel
honored to nominate her for the [Town] Youth Hall of Fame Award.
Sincerely,
School
Counselor
We were notified this weekend that she was selected as one of
two recipients of this award for 2017. Her photo will hang in the town hall for one year. There will be a recognition ceremony next month; I will be sure to
share photos.
She really is doing very well. Her grades and attendance are
the best they have been in high school. Her commitment to her wellness is unfaltering.
And this has been and will be the first year in high school that she has not
and will not need to spend time in the hospital. Four years ago at this time we
didn’t see a light at the end of the tunnel. But we did not give up. She did not
give up. She struggled along the way, nevertheless, she persisted! In less
than 10 weeks she will walk the stage at
