Zach stands out from the crowd of "average" college students. His stature is shorter and wider, as his shoulders hunch over and his feet point out. After being diagnosed with a rare disorder as a young child, the doctors told his parents that he would not have much of a chance at a normal life. But they were wrong.
Zach's parents were determined to see that he would have every opportunity that his younger siblings would. Sports, education, music, a social life. It wasn't easy, but Zach has the wonderful gift of a photographic memory and a sweet disposition. This combination, along with a strong support system, has seen him make it to his last year of college. It may take him twice as long to do any task, but he will get it done and he knows what he learned.
He is comfortable on campus, even though his shyness holds him back from engaging with others. He is seen in the union or Henderson with a book to his face (part of the disease involves mono-vision--seeing out of one eye at a time, which switches randomly). If greeted by a classmate, he will flash a quick smile and go back to his task.
What will he do with a degree in criminal justice? No one knows, but getting a diploma from a four-year college is more than anyone dreamed was possible.
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2 comments:
I like the way you told his story. He sounds like a strong young man that has totally beaten all odds.
Dang, you like go out and find a feature story and blog about it. Very nice and interesting. I should get on this web site more often.
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