Working with a child who has a rare disorder, like Rebecca, would require a lot of heart, love, patience, and a deep understanding of what makes that child unique, and what makes that child just as much of a person as anyone else is. For children like Rebecca, who have a rare condition, education can't just follow the usual steps, because they are not usual children. It's about seeing them as an individual, understanding what brings them joy, and finding creative ways to meet them where they are at. The first thing I would do is take the time to truly get to know the child. Every child, especially those with special needs, has their own personality, quirks, and preferences. For Rebecca, she loved things like singing "Happy Birthday", going to Giants games, and doing activities like roller coasters and kayaking. Learning about what makes a child light up, or what brings them comfort, excitement, and peace, builds the foundation for any kind of growth. Once I've connected with the child, I would focus on communication; both verbal and non-verbal. For children who are non-verbal like Rebecca, I believe in the power of alternative communication methods. Some of these methods include, picture boards, sign language, assistive technology, facial expressions, and body language. These tools aren't just about teaching. They're about listening too. They open up a channel for the child to express who they are and what they need. That is when they can begin to truly learn. Creativity and flexibility would also be key. A good way to go about her education would be to work with a multidisciplinary team. This would include speech therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, and special educators. Working as a team would help to create personalized goals and strategies tailored to the child's abilities and interests. Instead of focusing on limitations, I'd emphasize their strengths and build from there, celebrating every small victory along the way. Family plays a critical role in all of this. Parents and caregivers are a child's first teachers and lifelong advocates. They know their child better than anyone else and can provide insight into what works and what doesn't. Including the family in every step of the educational process ensures consistency, support, and love both at school and at home. Just like Rebecca was happiest surrounded by her loved ones, children thrive when their family is part of the journey. In the end, working with children like Rebecca isn't just about providing therapy or support. It's about forming a connection. It's about being willing to learn as much as you give and letting that child guide you just as much as you guide them. As a future physical therapist, my goal is to help children grow stronger, more confident, and more independent, but also to make them feel seen, heard, and valued. With the ambition to make a difference, the drive to connect meaningfully, and a deep desire to have a lasting impact, I hope to honor Rebecca's legacy through compassionate, individualized care that celebrates every child for exactly who they are.

Mental health is a major factor in our daily lives, especially when we are in school. It affects how we perform in classes, how we handle stress, and how we interact with friends and family. Struggling with mental health can make school feel overwhelming, but recognizing its importance and taking steps to care for it can lead to a better experience both academically and personally. When a student’s mental health is struggling, it can make school feel much harder. For instance, anxiety can make it difficult to concentrate in class or focus on assignments. You may find yourself constantly worrying, even when you’re trying to study, making it hard to remember what you’ve learned. On the other hand, depression can drain your energy and motivation, leaving you feeling too tired to do schoolwork or even get out of bed. This lack of energy can show up in your grades or cause you to miss deadlines. A common issue that arises is procrastination. When you're overwhelmed, it's easy to put off tasks. However, this only makes stress worse later on. If you’re staying up late to finish assignments, your sleep schedule can be thrown off, making it harder to focus the next day. This cycle can make academic success feel impossible, and over time, it can lead to a lack of confidence in your abilities. Mental health doesn’t just affect schoolwork—it can also impact your relationships and how you feel about yourself. School is about more than just academics; it’s also about making friends, joining clubs, and finding your place. When your mental health is struggling, it may feel easier to avoid social activities or pull away from friends. You might start feeling isolated or as though you don’t fit in, even when surrounded by others. Mental health struggles can also make self-care harder to manage. You might find it difficult to eat well, exercise, or even relax, which can increase stress and leave you feeling even more drained. This can lead to a vicious cycle where the more you neglect yourself, the worse your mental health becomes. Taking care of your mental health is crucial for balancing school and personal life. One of the first steps is recognizing when you need help and not being afraid to ask for it. Talking to a counselor, therapist, or even a trusted teacher or friend can make a huge difference. Therapy can help you learn how to deal with stress, anxiety, or depression, and reaching out for support is a strong step toward feeling better. Another way to prioritize your mental health is by getting enough sleep, staying physically active, and eating nutritious foods. Exercise, even a simple walk or stretch, can help boost your mood and reduce stress. Effective time management is also important. Staying organized and avoiding last-minute cramming can prevent the panic that often comes with an overloaded schedule. Finally, remember that it’s okay to ask for help—whether from a friend, teacher, or counselor. You don’t have to face everything alone, and getting support can help you feel better and more in control. In the end, mental health plays a significant role in both school and personal life. When mental health is struggling, it can affect focus, motivation, and relationships. But by prioritizing self-care, reaching out for support, and maintaining balance, you can make a big difference in how you feel and how well you do in school. Taking care of your mental health is not just about achieving better grades; it’s about feeling good in your daily life too.