Many students face remarkable challenges during their academic journeys, including injuries or serious illnesses that can interrupt their learning and daily lives. Despite facing challenges inside and outside of the classroom, WRMS students show that perseverance and resilience can lead to success. These problems can make it hard to keep up with schoolwork or take part in daily activities. These experiences teach students to deal with challenges and find alternative ways to do things.
When students go through times like this, they often have to make changes in their lives. They might need to take time off from sports, use crutches or casts, or take time off from school for surgeries and appointments. These changes can be hard and frustrating for students, but many learn to adjust. Over time, these struggles can make them stronger and more aware of what their body can handle. Most importantly, they can learn that these setbacks can’t stop them from moving forward.
After a rough practice, eighth grader Cameryn Dial injures her elbow, forcing her wrestling season to come to an end. “Shooting a double leg on Valeree Pham, her hip bone came down and crushed my elbow into the mat during wrestling practice,” she said. The pain was instant, and she knew something was wrong right away. “I stood up, it was all bruised and purple, and when I went to the car, my dad took me to the hospital and got me an X-ray,” she said. Cameryn had to focus on healing, which was difficult because she loved the sport. Even though she couldn’t compete, she stayed involved by supporting her teammates and keeping up with schoolwork. Her injury taught her to be strong, patient, and not give up on what she loves.
Just before Winter Break, eighth grader Manny Martinez got very sick with pneumonia. “I got sick about a week or two before Christmas Break of 2024.” His illness was serious enough that he had to stay in the hospital. “I was out of school for two weeks before winter break.” Manny had already been out of school for two weeks, and after break, he had been out of school for about a month. Catching up on schoolwork after being out for so long wasn’t easy. “It was decently hard to catch up, but my teachers were very kind to me about missing work, so it was manageable.” With support from his teachers and determination, Manny recovered and stayed on top of his classes, proving that it is possible to bounce back after facing a difficult challenge.
Seventh grader Avery Kennedy injured her foot during the 2-mile race at the first track meet. “I stepped on it wrong and I completely tore my tendon next to my plantar fascia.” She still completed the race and finished in first. This injury put her in a boot and forced her track season to come to an end. She continued to keep up on school and continued to participate by assisting coaches during track practices. Avery sets an example for other students by never giving up and continuing to do what she can to support her team.
Eighth grader Aliyah Tangpricha faced a significant setback when she dislocated her elbow during a wrestling tournament. “I was rushed to the emergency room, and they put my elbow back in,” she said. She was placed in a sling and began the recovery process. “I’ve been doing physical therapy, and I’ll be back in wrestling in a month,” she said. Aliyah continues to stay involved and support her team by attending practices and matches. She has been working hard to get back into the sport she loves.
The experiences of these students serve as a tribute to the power of resilience and determination. Whether dealing with physical injuries or extreme illnesses, each student has shown remarkable perseverance and strength. These stories highlight the strength it takes to overcome obstacles and continue to strive for success. Every student has the power to overcome adversity with grit and resistance.
