TEEN – COURAGE

This young lady was an outstanding student, who showed an extraordinary amount of courage by demonstrating an amazing example of strength, perseverance and determination as she lived her life. Merete suffered from brain cancer from a young age, but despite the frequent and aggressive chemotherapy weakening her body she attended school regularly. Her severe headaches required strong pain medicine to take the edge off, but remained determined to complete assignments and ask if she had homework and although half her body was paralyzed from a stroke during brain surgery, she never gave up. She persevered through the limitations and strengthened her abilities, rather than focusing on her disabilities. Regardless of how she felt, community and others were very important to her. She loved attending school at Lewis & Clark, attending her church, youth group, sing in the choir, draw and ride horses. She rode at Free Reign Riding Stables, which is a therapeutic riding program for individuals with special needs. During the final days of Merete’s life, her lack of strength did not allow her to ride. However, she was still determined to go to the stable and visit the horse she rode regularly. Merete’s strength, perseverance and determination were a shining example to other Special Education students, who have obstacles to overcome as well. Her contagious smile was encouraging and inspiring. Merete was an amazing young woman, who taught many people lessons that will not soon be forgotten.

Merete passed away December 1st, 2010, at the age of 15, but her example to others lives on.