Brittany Blackburn
Jacqueline Faith Blackburn
Taylor Goetz
Brittany Blackburn
Brittany’s father, Harry, was diagnosed with MS and Brittany says, “My life was/is always affected by multiple sclerosis. I’ve known no other way to live and it is tough to see any other way, either.” Brittany says that the unpredictability of this disease has also affected her mother and her older brother and sister in many ways.
Brittany will begin classes at the Des Moines Area Community College this fall and then she plans to transfer to the University of Iowa, in Iowa City to complete a Bachelor’s of Art Degree in Accounting. During her four years at Iowa Christian Academy, Brittany participated in many activities including Track and Field for all four years; the National Honor Society for two years; and Iowa Girls State for one year. In addition to the in-school activities, Brittany has been employed as a church nursery worker for two years; she has de-tasseled corn for the past two summers; she has been a babysitter for the past three years; and she is currently working at the local bakery.
Jacqueline Faith Blackburn
Jacqueline’s mother, Jacqueline J., was diagnosed with MS in June of 2006 and Jacqueline says, “(when) my mother was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis my life changed forever. As the daughter of a MS victim, I struggle emotionally, mentally and physically watching my mother cope with the ever present symptoms of her disease.” Jacqueline says she helps around the house by doing chores like laundry and vacuuming but this is hard because she also goes to school and works a part time job.
Jacqueline will begin classes at Minot State University – Bottineau this fall and she plans on studying Caregiver Services – Child Services and achieving her Associates Degree. During her years at Minot High School, Jacqueline participated in many activities including Key Club for one year; 4-H for five years with an award of Grand Champion; youth bowling league for three years on the first place team; and as a volunteer on the Minot Air Force Base for six years. In addition to the in-school activities, Jacqueline was employed at Taco Bell for two years and is currently employed at the Market Place Foods as a Courtesy Clerk.
Taylor Goetz
Taylor’s father, Robert, was diagnosed with MS in 1995 and Taylor says, “Multiple Sclerosis has given me a new light to see the world through. I no longer want only the best things in life to happen- such as no more MS, but am so grateful for every step my dad takes to becoming better. I have also learned to treasure more things about life. Most little girls can not wait for the day their dad walks them down the aisle, but I can not wait for the day my dad drives me down the aisle. It will be perfect.”
Taylor will begin classes at Georgia State University this fall to complete a Bachelor’s Degree in Respiratory Therapy. During her years at Shenandoah High School, Taylor participated in many activities including the 4H Club for nine years; dance for four years; volleyball for two years; served on student council for one year; was involved in tennis for three years; and was a part of the National Honor Society for two years. After graduation Taylor aspires to work in a hospital that has a Cystic Fibrosis Department and work for the memory of her sister who died of Cystic Fibrosis.