Bucks County Teen Portraits Senior Pictures

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Alexandria Poe

4/3/2019

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Alexandria Poe – California
Interview by Zoe D'Angelo
Nomination and Photography by Christa Poe
Issue 19 Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Alexandria Poe is one of the most kind, giving and caring teens I know. She is an older sister to a severely disabled teenage sister, holds a 4.57 GPA, has had nothing but straight A's through her entire high school education and is on track to be Valedictorian; she is a leader, plays in band and jazz; she volunteers for Special Needs children in her free time as both a buddy for local nonprofits and through Challenger Baseball. She also works for special needs parents to give them a break. She is ALWAYS thinking of others and is beautiful inside and out.

What are some of the volunteering opportunities you have had?
By far, the greatest thing that I have done with my life up to this point is volunteer my time with special needs children. Growing up with a severely disabled sister has allowed me to develop a passion for helping others succeed in all aspects of life. Altogether, I have participated in a wide variety of volunteer programs including Special Olympics, T.E.A.M. Vacaville, T.E.A.M. Dixon, Vacaville Challenger Baseball, and Dixon Challenger Baseball to name a few. Each program has allowed me to connect with amazing children that each face various challenges in life. Undoubtedly, each kiddo that I have worked with has changed me as a person and will forever hold a part of my soul. There is nothing else in the world that compares to knowing that you have made a difference in someone else’s life–a difference that changes someone else’s entire world–and yet would go unnoticed by nearly everyone else.

Tell us about some of your leadership opportunities you have had.
Throughout the years, I have held a variety of leadership positions in all aspects of my life. From holding the first chair position in music class to coaching for the Special Olympics basketball team, or even captain of the girls’ basketball team, each leadership opportunity has allowed me to improve upon myself. All in all, I have learned to appreciate differing opinions to my own and to act as a voice for those who would otherwise go unheard. Undoubtedly, each leadership position I have held has allowed me to flourish into the confident person I am today, unafraid to change the world.

How do you maintain an outstanding 4.57 GPA with all your amazing extracurricular activities?
My grades are nothing short of hard work and long nights. Competing as a three-season athlete, participating in my high school’s orchestra and jazz bands, as well as volunteering my time in the community does not leave a lot of free time. With that in mind however, I always make sure to prioritize the free time that I do have between hanging out with my family and completing all my school work. Often, this leads to studying a particular subject for a set duration of time and then moving onto a second subject. This method proves to be the most successful for me personally, because it forces my brain to switch train of thought and prevents the work from becoming monotonous.

What are your plans for the future?
In regard to my plans for the future, I intend to further my education at a university while pursuing my degree in Cultural Anthropology. Over time, I have come to fall in love with the individual characteristics and quirks that make each person unique. Cultures work in much the same way, just on a global scale. For that reason, I hope to advocate for the beauty and knowledge that each culture, and person, has to offer the world.

Alexandria will be featured in Issue 19 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

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Brooklynn Hudgins

3/28/2019

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Image by Nicole Hunsburger

Brooklynn Hudgins - Pennsylvania
Interview by Larissa Chelius
Photography by Abbe Kiwak, USYS Soccer Photography & Nicole Hunsburger
Inspiring Teens Magazine Issue 19

The Nomination: Brooklynn goes to Pennridge High School and plays for the high school soccer team. She also plays for Eastern Pennsylvania’s Olympic Development Program and for Continental Football Club. She is playing for the first ever @phillyonestar women's team and plays in the @wpsi.

Image by USYS Soccer Photography

How did you become interested in soccer and how did you start?
I have played soccer since I was 3 years old and ever since then I have had a passion for soccer.

What kind of community comes with being a part of Eastern Pennsylvania’s Olympic Development Program?
EPYSA and ODP has provided me with the opportunity to play with an amazing group of girls who also feel passionately about the game. When we are on and off the field, there is a sense of family. We love to compete and represent East PA, but we also have a strong friendship and bonds that will last when we end our ODP run this year.

Tell me a little bit about the Continental Football Club.
Continental Football Club (CFC) is a travel soccer team that I have joined this year. I love all the coaches there and my team (U-17 NPL) make soccer even more fun. They are a highly competitive club and we travel often for our games.

What position do you play on your teams?
I am a full-time goalkeeper. Ever since I was 10 years old, I decided that I wanted to play goalkeeper because it was the right fit for me and the position I enjoyed most playing.

What opportunities will you receive for being a member of the Brand New Philadelphia Lonestar team?
Getting to play with the Philadelphia Lonestar team will allow me to see a whole new perspective to soccer. The level of talent this team has is something I am so excited to be a part of. Playing for this team will allow me to develop friendships with people from around the east region and help me improve how I play my game.

What kind of commitment do you have from each of these teams? Do you have a lot of free time?
All teams require the best commitment you can give. Because of this, all these teams have become my life because of the traveling my teams go to. For example, I went to California for my ODP team for a tournament and then the next weekend I went to Boston for my Continental team. With all the traveling for these teams every weekend and the practices during the weekdays, I have very little free time. But, I enjoy this schedule because I love playing soccer and I get to do it with girls that I am really close with.

Image by Abbe Kiwak

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
Work for your goals- without hard work, it is difficult to achieve your goals and aspirations. But with hard work, it seems as if anything is possible.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
In five years, I hope to be going to college and playing college soccer while studying medicine.

What about you inspires others/why do you think you are inspiring?
I work towards my goals. Hard work beats talent which is what I try to remember with everything I do whether it be academic or sports related.

How do you keep yourself organized with everything you have on your plate?
We have this huge calendar with everything going on in my family’s schedule. Since I have a family of 5, it’s hard to keep up with everything. My mom always is organized and on top of everything with all of our schedules, so I give her a lot of credit for helping to keep me organized.

What is your favorite activity or pastime that wasn't in your nomination?
Recently, I was selected to go on the game show “The Classh-room” where three students go against three teachers and test their knowledge. It was such a fun experience and I would do it again in a heartbeat.

Brooklynn will be featured in Issue 19 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

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Jacolby Moore

3/27/2019

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Jacolby Moore - Houston, TX
Interview by Michelle Sicard
Nomination and Photography by Pink Lilly Photography
Issue 19 Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Jacolby is a young man focused on dreams and goals. While in high school he managed to play Basketball, Football, run track and play tennis all while maintaining his grade. He is debating on which college he wants to attend but has is eyes on U OF H for Art Institute. As a backup plan he has Criminal Justice in mind.

I became interested in sports at the age of 5 years old. I started playing Basketball for the YMCA.
When I was in Elem. School in the 5th grade, my cousin Brandon hit a 2 pointer in 3 seconds before the end of the game which tied up the game and I came back to make the final shot! My team and I was running around the court screaming and yelling we won! Yes! The YMCA teaches you values, respect, and morals for one another. I will carry that knowledge with me for life what I was taught by my coaches!

I plan on going to University of Houston and majoring in Architect with minor in Art. I will play Tennis and run track for UofH. In the future I see myself owning my own Architect Business and giving back to the community.

Always work hard and never let know one tell you, can’t follow your dreams. Dream big, strive for the star, have respect for one another, morals and values! Stay well-grounded and always remember the first law of nature is self- preservation.

To past time I like to play my PS4, play Basketball, cook and help out in my community. I play on line with my friends and family.

I’d like to own my own business/clothing line, second graduate from college with my BS degree and my Master in Art and Design.

One of my favorite talents that was not mention is swimming! In my family I have a brother and a cousin who became Lifeguards at the age of 15. I remember watching them both inspired me to become a Lifeguard! When I turned 15 years of age, I became a Lifeguard for Greater Houston Pool Management. I worked for GHPM for 3 years. I was employed with Safe Splash as a Lifeguard part time for 2 years. I am currently employed with Houston Swim Club. I have off campus duty every day, so I am able to work afterschool and on Saturdays. During my time as a Lifeguard I have saved 2 lives and truly love my job and would not trade it for anything!

Jacolby will be featured in Issue 19 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

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Phoebe Berry

3/13/2019

Phoebe Berry -17 - California
Interview by Zoe D'Angelo
Nomination by Angelina Valdez
Photography by Stacy Jacob Photography
Issue 19 Inspiring Teens Magazine | Athlete

The Nomination: Phoebe Berry is a Varsity cheerleader and an honor roll student. She interns at a local grade school to stay young at heart. She also has a part time job as a hostess where she greets the valley with her warm welcoming smile. When a normal person would be tired, she perseveres and always gives her all.

How did your career in cheerleading start?
I started cheerleading my sophomore year, I had multiple friends in it, and I thought that it would be a fun sport to try.

What are some ways you keep yourself organized with cheer, school and your home life?
I keep myself organized by managing my time so I can make sure I have enough time to do my work, go to practice, have a social life, and spend time with my family. I always prioritize school though.

Image by Angelina Valdez (Mom)

Where do you work and what is your favorite part about your job?
I work at Stuft Pizza Bar and Grill. I love the people I work with we get along very well and do our work but still have fun with each other.

Tell us how you stay so dedicated to succeeding.
I stay dedicated to succeeding by knowing what I generally want in life and doing everything I can possibly do to achieve that.

Image by Yolanda Gibson (Nana/Grandma)

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Five years from now I see myself in law school on my way to becoming a lawyer.

Phoebe will be featured in Issue 19 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

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Gaby Esquivel

3/12/2019

Gaby Esquivel – 17 - Maryland
Interview by Zoe D'Angelo
Nomination and Photography by Danielle Lavis Photography
Issue 17 | Athlete

The Nomination: Gaby Esquivel. Gaby is someone that you love the moment you meet her. She is hands down one of the most kindhearted people I have ever met. She is genuinely interested in other people, will drop anything for someone in need and is a huge animal lover. Love, God, animals, and family are most important to Gaby. Gaby is a highly accomplished competitive equestrian. She is ranked as one of the best in the nation.

Gaby volunteers a lot in her community to make a positive impact. Specifically, at her church they garden, make lunches for the homeless, and raise money for poorer countries. She also went on a church retreat and mentored younger teens. With a few powerful words, she could see how much she impacted those around her with her life stories and messages about faith.

The fight against cancer is an extremely important cause in her life. This is because her dad is a well-known cancer surgeon. In addition, she is the Vice President in the Stand Up to Cancer club at her school.

For the Stand Up to Cancer Club at my school I am the vice president. I help organize meetings, such as one to make blankets for kids with cancer at Johns Hopkins. I also assist in our annual Glow Run to raise money for those with cancer in honor of high school alumna Matsie Bosmans. I advertise the run, design t-shirts, and set up lights.

My plans for the future are to attend college, most likely in Maryland, Delaware, or Pennsylvania, and major in biology. As of now, I would like to attend medical or veterinary school in hopes of becoming a surgeon for either humans or animals. I also intend on keeping horses as a major aspect of my life.

I have had a range of equestrian experiences ever since I was 9 years old. From jumping to polocrosse to dressage I have tried a variety of styles of riding. For pony club, I participated in “Games” which consisted of several interesting obstacles, such as attempting to land coffee mugs on poles while galloping on horseback and popping balloons on the ground. Polocrosse was similar to lacrosse, but riding a horse at the same time. I also competed in Tetrathlon which was similar to a triathlon, but with 4 phases (running, swimming, target shooting, and show jumping on horseback). More recently, I began competing in the Hunters through the equestrian team for my high school. This involves jumping and being judged on the position and equitation of the rider. I did however settle in Eventing, which is a three phase horse trial consisting of dressage, show jumping, and cross country. I currently show in this style of riding very competitively and have traveled to Kentucky, Virginia, Florida, and South Carolina for horse shows.

Being ranked one of the best equestrians in the nation was most definitely a pleasant surprise. I always worked my hardest, did my best performance at shows, and spent endless hours at the barn, but never expected to become nationally ranked. When my instructor told me the news I was absolutely shocked and ecstatic. Yet, I focused on remaining humble and continuing my hard work and heavy competition season to further improve my riding ability.

Gaby will be featured in Issue 17 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

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Giavonna Sabatini

3/5/2019

click here to buy issue 15

Giavonna Sabatini
Interview by Sierra Zaccagnino
Nomination by Gabriella Sabatini
Pennsylvania
Issue 15

The Nomination: Giavonna Sabatini is inspiring because of all the activities she does. She plays lacrosse, diving, and track all in one season. She doesn’t get home until late and she still does all her honors homework. Also, she has time for volunteering at many different places and tutors kindergarteners too! With all this, she manages to keep a job on the weekends at CVS.

What sports do you play and how did you become interested in playing so many?
I play many sports, but my main sports are Track, Lacrosse, and Diving. I’ve been interested in running since elementary school and have gone to junior Olympics. Lacrosse I started in middle school and I’m currently on a club team named T3! Diving I got into recently and I got into because of my injury. Freshman year I was in a snowboarding accident and I had a concussion and needed knee surgery to reconstruct my knee because I tore so many things. I couldn’t do sports for a year, so I was a manager for the swim team, and the coach convinced to come out for the team. I’m so glad he did.

How do you manage playing multiple sports in one season?
It was hard to manage at first, but I have a half hour to an hour break in between track and diving so it’s a nice break. Those are every day during the week then I usually have invitationals for track once a month on Saturday. Lacrosse is usually on Sundays. When two meets clash, I talk to my coaches and then decide which one is more crucial.

How do you balance all your extra-curricular and athletic activities with your school work?
It’s a little bit of a process. You have to have a calendar with ALL of your events. Then you see how long you’ll be at each place. For mandatory informational meetings, I usually take my science because it doesn't require as much attention as math or English would. In between sports practice I do math, and on my ride home I do English.

What have you learned about yourself through athletics?
I learned how much I could trust myself. After my injury, I realized how much of my life I dedicated to sports and it left me feeling very upset without any physical activity. Even though I wanted to push through the injury, I knew I had to trust myself with how much was too much. It helped me make so many of my best friends and keep me happy. Whenever I’m feeling a bad emotion, I get to the start line or board, and all my emotions melt away and I’m left feeling excited.

Tell me about some of the volunteer work you have done.
I do tons of work such as volunteering at the Langhorne rehabilitation center where I play games with Joanne Hanson. I’ve volunteered extensively at the Churchville nature center giving tours of the butterfly house. One of my favorites is when I went to Sleepy Hallow and I supervised Urban Promise Trenton kids and donated gloves, hats, jacket, and baked cookies!! Next month, I am caroling at another Rehabilitation center. Furthermore, I always volunteer my Wednesdays at Wrightstown Elementary School for the kindergarten class I help tutor!

What are your plans after high school?
In the future, I hope to get into the Air Force Academy and study Biomedical Engineering! If not, I’d love any military academy or military college!

Giavonna was featured in Issue 15 of Inspiring Teens Magazine.

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DJ King

2/27/2019

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DJ King
Interview by Zoe D’Angelo
Nomination and Main Photography by Rebekah Gregg Photography
Georgia
Issue 18 | Leader

The Nomination: DJ King is a leader on his football team and basketball team (team captain). He strives to be an example to his little sister and he's an encouragement to his mom and his friends. Leadership is a major theme in his life and is extremely important to him.

When did you careers in football and basketball start?

I started playing basketball around the age of three. It was like an everyday thing to me until about first grade, which is when I stared my football career.

Image by Rebekah Gregg Photography

Why do you think you are considered a “True Influencer”?

I believe that I am a true influencer because of my leadership and positivity. No matter what I’ll always try and pull the best out of someone even when they feel they are at their very worst.

Tell me about your younger sister.

My sisters name is Aryelle, she’s in the eighth grade and plays basketball as well. She is my motivation for just about everything I do, I’m the middle child so I know what not to do from my older brother and I know what to pass Down to my younger sister so I feel as i can set a good example for her then she can expect to be very very fortunate in the future.

What are some of the leadership opportunities you have had?

Every team I’ve ever been on I’ve Been the captain, I’ve been a part of student council in middle school, Chick-fil-A leadership academy, I’ve been in charge of small groups at basketball camps, I try to be a leader in the classroom as well

Looking forward, where do you see yourself in the next 5 years?

In the next five years I see myself hopefully entering the draft but if not then being a successful business man.

DJ will be published in Issue 18 of Inspiring Teens Magazine.

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Raina Saldivar

2/23/2019

Raina Saldivar
Interview by Zoe D’Angelo
Nomination and Photography by Alicia Crosson Photography
Issue 18 | Sports
California

The Nomination: I am privileged to nominate Raina as an inspiring teen! In school, Raina is involved in year-round sports including basketball, softball, and golf. She is also involved in many clubs and is a part of student council. Raina is an amazing teen of many gifts and talents! Her hobbies include special effects makeup, woodcarving, wood burning, and painting. She also enjoys any community service projects that she can be a part of. I admire her love for family, friends, and life. Thank you so much for considering Raina as one of our amazing and inspiring teens!

Tell me about your sports you’re involved in.
I’m a tri-sport athlete. I play golf, basketball and softball at my high school. I love being involved in sports because it helps me meet new friends, teaches me life lessons and good sportsmanship! Playing sports has taught me to think of others and be a better team player. One thing I’m most proud of is my ability to work hard and maintain a 4.0 GPA. I started playing sports year-round when I realized it also helped me focus better in school! I am dyslexic and playing sports has helped me have a quicker response time in my academics because it keeps my brain sharp and ready at all times!

How are you involved in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes on your campus?
I am the secretary for FCA on my high school campus. My job duties include getting guest speakers to come share their testimonies. It has been really cool because I get to work with many retired athletes and influential business owners who also share the same beliefs I do. I try my best to invite new students from our campus to join our monthly meetings so they can learn more about Jesus! One thing that is important to me is not to just say I’m a believer but to show it through my actions by loving others and being a positive role model. I have made amazing friends through FCA!

How did you become interested in special effects makeup?
When I was 9, I had my makeup done for Halloween to represent a sugar skull style and I realized I could do amazing things with makeup! My dad and I go all out for Halloween on our costumes and special effects every year. This past year we had over 700 people come through our haunted house! I love seeing the kids happy when they get candy and they enjoy looking at all the displays we have set out. In particular, I love the gory zombie stuff and I always hand make my entire costume. Last year, I was Maleficent! For fun, I enjoy donating my time to local organizations to run the face painting booths to help bring in support for their cause.

Raina took this picture of the outfit she made!

What are your plans for the future?
I want to attend a 4-year Christian College and I plan to get a business degree. I would like to open my own small business one day, but I haven’t decided what just yet. I’d probably like to open my small business in my home town so I can be involved in the community, give back to everyone that has supported me and live a kind, simple life. I am super proud of the community I am a part of!

Raina will be featured in Issue 18 of Inspiring Teens Magazine.

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Madelene Eilers

2/23/2019

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Madelene Eilers
Interview by Zoe D’Angelo
Nomination by Sarah Eilers
Photography by Amy Taylor - A Taylored Image
Oklahoma
Issue 18 | Volunteer

The Nomination: Maddie Eilers is a Senior in Mooreland Ok. She is inspiring to me because she gives of herself and her time. She received the Barbara James Service Award for completing 250+ hours of community service, serving and loving on others in a way many teens will not do. It’s refreshing to see a light shine so bright as she does what she loves.

National Honor Society, NHS Treasurer, National Technical Honor Society, HOSA, HOSA Chapter Secretary, Golf, Band, Youth Group, Classic Bowl Honor Band, People and Song summer internship, Oklahoma Honor Society, Superintendent's Honor Roll, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu

Tell me about the Barbara James Service Award.

This award is in memory of Barbara James. This award seeks to recognize individual HOSA members who show leadership skills and have a commitment to community service in health. To receive this award your volunteer hours have to come from something that is related to the health care field.

What is HOSA and HOSA Chapter Secretary?

HOSA is an international student organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Health Science Education. HOSA provides a unique program of leadership development, motivation, and recognition exclusively for secondary, post-secondary, adult, and collegiate students enrolled in health science education and biomedical science programs or have interests in pursuing careers in health professions. HOSA is 100% health care! I am the secretary of my HOSA chapter.

How did you receive 250+ hours of community service?

I received my hours from volunteering at my local martial arts gym, RYSE MMA. I was chosen to be a part of the STORM team which stands for Special Team of Role Models. As a STORM team member, I helped teach children ages 3-15 how to live a healthy lifestyle, build character, and how to defend themselves if needed.

What else do you do in your spare time?

I also love helping, serving and reaching people. One of my most favorite things to do is spread the good news of Jesus Christ every opportunity I get.
I set an example in what I believe. When I set my mind to something, it’s going to happen. I am very determined.

Image by Nikki Pecoraro of H&N Photography

What are your plans for the future?

I plan on attending Northwestern Oklahoma State University to pursue a degree in Health & Sports Science: Health/Fitness Management and minor in Business. I also plan on continuing to write songs and play music. I am determined to continue my training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and obtain the honor of becoming a black belt. These are just my plans; God’s plans are the real plans.

Madelene will be featured in Issue 18 of Inspiring Teens Magazine.

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Tyler Graciano

1/22/2019

Click here to vote for Tyler for the Cover of Issue 16

Interview by Michelle Sicard
Nomination and Photography by Alexis Graciano of Graciano Photography
Indiana

The Nomination: Tyler is a loving person. He enjoys singing in his free time and is in his school choir. He plays on his school basketball team as well as the AAU basketball team for our town. He was in private school most his life where they taught him Spanish and how to sign. At a young age he found his love for singing and theater at his private school but is very happy to now be in public school playing basketball and his school choir.

How did you become interested in singing in the first place? Is there a specific artist/band you are inspired by?

Well it all started with the old originals like Taylor Swift and Justin Bieber but now it is more like Khalid, Halsey, Post Malone, Lil Uzi Vert, Nicki Minaj, and Juice World. To be honest it was just a feeling, that I just loved to do it, it made me happy and feel like I could be a part of something greater than myself.

How did you feel during your transition from private to public school? Was it that much different, and if so, how?

I loved it. My old school wasn’t really the right fit for me and some of the kids were not what I needed, plus all my friends went to the public school. It is different but coming from that to this is a transition I wouldn’t change for the world. I’m so much happier I get to be with my real friends. Shoutout to The 6 Amigos, Griffin, and Cassidy.

Tell me a little bit about your AAU Basketball Team. Was there any experience where you had to be a leader or show leadership skills in the team?

So my AAU team is really hyper and were like a family to be honest. We have support for each other and have each other’s backs. There was a few times when I had to step up especially on my School team but we all worked together and we got second in conference.

What are some of your favorite pieces you have sang in choir and does your school have choir concerts or other activities?

Well my favorite piece in choir was singing Believe from the polar express, and yes we have a Winter, Spring, and ISMA pre-concert. My favorite musical I have ever done was at my old school and we did High School Musical.

With all your amazing extra-curriculars, how do you keep yourself organized and keep your grades up?
I have to stay organized or I get stressed. It’s weird and helpful at the same time, but I just try my best to get good grades just like I do.

What do you plan on doing after high school?
Well for college I was either thinking about staying local like IU Bloomington or Purdue but, I really wanted to go somewhere where its nicer like AADA which is an acting in school in California, or somewhere in Texas or Florida. And if neither of my passions work out, I would try to be an Interior Designer or Architect.

Tyler will be featured in Issue 16.

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Lily Crane

1/21/2019

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Interview by Zoe D'Angelo
Nomination by Joyce Crane | Photography by Dawn Brosie & Kelly Averett
Texas

The Nomination: Lily is profoundly deaf but has not let that stop her from accomplishing anything. She is a great basketball player, barrel racer, and has won numerous pageants (current title is Miss Rodeo for a Reason 2019). We were told she would never talk, she talks pretty clearly and she “hears” by reading lips. She does not want to be treated any different that anyone else. She is absolutely beautiful but has not clue, is extremely funny and outgoing, and has a huge heart. She’s pretty much perfect.

Image Taken By Coach

1. Tell me about your illness and how you deal with it throughout everyday life.

I try not to let my disability effect my life. I play basketball, I ride horses and barrel race, I compete in pageants, and I work as a host at a restaurant! I wear hearing aids which helps me hear loud noises so I am not in complete silence when they are on, however I do turn them off a lot because silence isn't always bad. =) This is the life God blessed me with and I don't know anything different so I can't really complain.

2. What was competing in Miss Rodeo for a Reason like and how was it winning the pageant?

Competing in the Miss Rodeo for a Reason pageant was probably my best life experience to date! I was first picked to be in the top 10 and then we all traveled to Vegas during the NFR to compete in different challenges. We had to do impromptu interviews with vendors, make runway outfits out of feedbags, etc. I made 10 friends for life and was completing shocked when I won because the other girls were all so perfect! Truly an honor to be apart of such a great team of people!

Was it difficult learning how to read lips?

I really have been doing it for longer then I can even remember. I do know when I was in kindergarten they had interpreters there signing for me but I didn't want to watch them. I wanted to watch the teachers lips. I think I have been practicing it so long it just seems natural. I only really have difficulty when men have beards or people are mumblers and don't move lips a lot!

What advice would you give a child who is dealing with the same disability as you?

You can do anything you set your mind to do, just try it. It might be hard but trying is worth it in the end. Don't worry about what other people think or say about you, their opinion doesn't matter. You are who you are because God made you that way and wanted you that way so love yourself!

What are your plans for the future?

I plan to go to college, major in equine science and live on a farm with my horses. I would like to have a rescue farm for horses and dogs and eventually have clinics for disabled kids to come and ride!

Lily will be published in Issue 16, scheduled to be released 3.1.2019