When I think about working with a child who has a rare disorder like Rebecca Lynn Seto, I think of Margaret Romph. Margaret was a bright, spirited young girl who became a quadriplegic at the age of four after a devastating car accident. Despite her physical limitations, she radiated joy and determination. I had the privilege of coaching a cheerleading team for individuals with special needs, a program her mother and I started to help Margaret continue doing what she loved most—cheering. At first, I didn’t know exactly how to support someone with such complex needs. But I quickly learned that what mattered most was being present, patient, and creative. I discovered that connection comes before correction, and that true impact begins with understanding—not just the diagnosis, but the person behind it. Margaret and I built a deep friendship through shared laughs, adapted routines, and a whole lot of heart. She taught me that communication doesn’t always require words, and that movement—even when limited—can still be a source of freedom, joy, and progress. If I were to work with a child like Rebecca, I would begin the same way I did with Margaret: by getting to know them beyond their medical chart. I’d observe their expressions, reactions, preferences, and quirks. I’d learn what excites them, calms them, and makes them feel seen. With children who are non-verbal or have complex communication needs, establishing trust and finding ways to "speak their language"—whether through eye gaze, facial cues, assistive technology, or rhythmic movement—is absolutely essential. As a future pediatric physical therapist, I plan to use a “play-based” and relationship-centered approach, much like we did on our cheer team. Games, music, obstacle courses, and interactive activities provide opportunities not only for physical improvement, but also for cognitive and social growth. These strategies allow therapy to feel less clinical and more joyful, especially for children with rare or misunderstood conditions. My goal is always to help children reach their fullest potential—not just physically, but emotionally and socially as well. Family involvement is also vital. Rebecca’s story reminded me of Margaret’s mother—tireless, loving, and devoted to her daughter’s quality of life. Families often know their child’s needs better than anyone else. Their insights can help shape the most effective and personalized care plan. I would ensure that the child’s family feels included, respected, and supported every step of the way. I believe education should extend to caregivers as well, so they feel confident continuing therapy strategies at home and empowered as advocates for their child’s success. In Margaret’s case, the collaborative work of her physical, occupational, and speech therapists allowed her to accomplish things that once seemed impossible—walking with assistance, communicating through facial cues, and eating independently. Watching that progress unfold was life-changing for me. It’s what inspired me to pursue a Doctorate in Physical Therapy with future specialization in pediatrics or neurology. My dream is to one day help children like Margaret and Rebecca not only survive, but thrive. I’ve come to believe that physical therapy is much more than restoring function. It’s about being a consistent source of joy, trust, and belief in someone’s potential. It’s about helping a child feel seen, heard, and celebrated, no matter how rare or complex their condition may be. Though Margaret passed away in 2019 and Rebecca in 2024, their spirits continue to inspire. I carry their stories with me into every classroom, clinical rotation, and eventually, treatment session. They remind me that behind every diagnosis is a human heart—and it’s our job as healthcare professionals to treat that heart with dignity, creativity, and endless compassion.

My name is Hannah Bates, and I’m currently pursuing a Doctorate in Physical Therapy at the University of South Dakota. From a young age, I felt drawn to working with children and individuals with disabilities—what began as a simple interest has grown into a lifelong calling to serve in pediatric medicine, particularly pediatric physical therapy. One extraordinary child, Margaret Romph, helped me fully understand what it means to care for others. Margaret became a quadriplegic after a traumatic spinal injury in a car accident at the age of four. Despite her physical limitations, she had an infectious love for life and an unshakable passion for cheerleading. Together with her mother, I co-founded a cheer team for individuals with special needs. We designed obstacle courses, choreographed inclusive routines, and found creative ways to promote movement, joy, and connection. Margaret’s laughter and light transformed every practice into something bigger than sport—it became a celebration of resilience and possibility. Margaret passed away in 2019, a loss that shook me deeply but also shaped my purpose. I came to understand that my role was not just about facilitating movement or therapy—it was about creating dignity, connection, and happiness during life’s most fragile moments. Her legacy continues to guide me every day, as I work toward becoming a healthcare professional who brings comfort, strength, and joy to the children and families I serve. My involvement with the Special Olympics, Unified Sports, and the PEOPEL PE (Physical Education Opportunity Program for Exceptional Learners) has further solidified this mission. These experiences have given me the chance to build lasting relationships with individuals of all abilities, helping them develop not just physical skills but confidence and community. Through adaptive sports and therapy-based activities, I’ve seen firsthand how the right support can transform challenges into achievements. These programs have also helped me develop key skills—creative problem solving, active listening, empathy, and adaptability—all of which are essential in pediatric physical therapy. Whether I'm using a game to help a child improve motor function or encouraging a family through a difficult diagnosis, I want to be someone they can rely on. I’m especially interested in specializing in neurology or oncology, fields where physical therapy can be an essential source of hope and healing during prolonged medical journeys. To me, physical therapy is not just a profession—it’s a chance to make a meaningful impact every single day. It’s about being there when someone needs you most, lifting them up in their lowest moments, and celebrating every small victory together. I want to help children reach their full potential, not just physically, but emotionally and socially. Looking forward, I plan to make a broader social impact by helping expand access to pediatric therapy services in underserved communities. I hope to one day start or contribute to an inclusive therapy and recreation center where children with special needs can receive not just clinical care, but also opportunities for social growth, play, and creativity. I envision working with schools, nonprofits, and healthcare providers to build more inclusive programming and family education initiatives. My goal is to be a voice for those who are often overlooked—advocating for policies, resources, and environments that give every child a chance to thrive. Margaret’s story, and those of the many children I’ve worked with since, have shaped not just the kind of professional I want to be—but the kind of person. I hope to honor their strength by dedicating my career to helping others live full, meaningful lives, regardless of the challenges they face.

From an early age, I discovered a deep passion for working with children and individuals with disabilities—one that has steadily grown into a calling to serve in pediatric medicine, specifically pediatric physical therapy. My experiences as a cheer coach, community volunteer, and caregiver have helped shape the person I am today and the healthcare professional I strive to become. But it was one extraordinary child, Margaret Romph, who showed me what it truly means to care for others, and why pediatric healthcare is such a powerful, purpose-driven path. Margaret suffered a traumatic cervical spinal injury in a car accident at age four, leaving her a quadriplegic. Yet, she remained full of life, joy, and a deep love for cheerleading. Her mother and I co-founded a cheer team for individuals with special needs, where we designed obstacle courses, choreographed routines, and created playful ways to encourage movement, social interaction, and joy. Despite Margaret’s physical limitations, she radiated happiness in every practice. We developed a deep friendship—filled with laughter, love, and resilience. Her passing in 2019 marked a turning point in my life, solidifying my desire to pursue a career helping children like her and gave me a deeper appreciation for the fragility of life. Margaret's story reminds me deeply of Noah’s, and the compassionate professionals who gave his family the priceless gift of adventure, dignity, and love during his hardest moments. Like the caregivers who made such a meaningful impact on Noah’s life, I want to be the person who brings comfort and strength to children and families when they need it most. Pediatric medicine, especially physical therapy with a potential focus in neurology or oncology, gives me the opportunity to do just that. Through years of nannying, coaching, and volunteering with Special Olympics and Unified Sports, I’ve been entrusted with the growth and wellbeing of many children—each one unique, each one teaching me something new about resilience, empathy, and hope. I’ve learned that being a part of a child’s journey, especially through illness or adversity, is both a great responsibility and an incredible gift. All of these experiences have affirmed my desire to pursue a career in pediatric physical therapy, with potential specializations in neurology or play-based intervention. Pediatric physical therapy aligns perfectly with my strengths—creativity, compassion, and a genuine love for helping kids reach their full potential. Whether I'm leading a child through therapeutic exercises disguised as games or supporting a family during a difficult diagnosis, I want to be their source of encouragement and healing. Noah’s story is a powerful reminder of why pediatric care matters so deeply. It isn’t just about medicine—it’s about people. It’s about building relationships, creating joy in difficult moments, and being a constant source of hope and support. I hope to continue Noah’s legacy by dedicating my career to helping children facing challenges—whether physical, neurological, or oncological—live full, meaningful lives, regardless of the diagnosis. Margaret inspired me to pursue pediatric physical therapy. Children like Noah inspire me to never forget why this work matters. Their courage and spirit live on through the people who cared for them—and now, through people like me, who are honored to follow in those caregivers’ footsteps. I am committed to carrying that legacy forward, one child, one family, and one heartfelt connection at a time.

From the moment I was born, I’ve lived with something that sets me apart—a lymphatic malformation on my forehead. Growing up with a visible difference meant I was often met with stares, whispers, and sometimes even fear. While other kids enjoyed a carefree childhood, I was trying to make sense of a world filled with doctor visits, confusing medical terms, and a constant ache of feeling out of place. My condition hemorrhaged multiple times, which only amplified the physical and emotional pain. People didn’t just see me; they saw what made me different, and too often, they didn’t bother to look beyond that. Living with a rare facial deformity has been incredibly difficult. The way people looked at me—as if I were somehow broken or didn’t quite belong—left a lasting impact on how I saw myself. There were moments when I wished I could hide—when I thought I’d never be seen for anything beyond the bump on my forehead. For years, I struggled to find confidence and courage, feeling like my life was defined by my appearance. But over time, something began to shift. I realized I’d been fighting silent battles most people couldn’t see, and surviving them gave me a strength I didn’t know I had. I’ve spent much of my life searching for courage within myself, but I’ve also found incredible strength in giving that courage to others. My greatest motivation comes from watching people rediscover hope—watching pain turn into progress, fear into resilience, and uncertainty into pride. I started to see my experience as more than just something to endure—it became something that shaped me. I’ve learned to lead with empathy and live with purpose. Lessons like “you’re more than what people see” and “let others come with curiosity but leave with compassion” have stayed with me. I no longer see my condition as a limitation; I see it as a reason to be the kind of person who shows up for others. That realization sparked a deeper purpose in me. I want to help others find hope, healing, and confidence, just as I’ve had to find within myself. That’s why I’ve decided to pursue a Doctorate in Physical Therapy. This career path feels incredibly personal to me. I know what it’s like to feel vulnerable in a healthcare setting, to want someone to treat you like a whole person—not just a diagnosis. Physical therapy, to me, is about helping people find confidence and strength in their own bodies and believe in themselves again. It’s about showing up not just with clinical skills, but with empathy, patience, and a deep understanding of what someone might be going through. I’ve come to believe that our differences aren’t setbacks—they’re sources of strength. My own journey has given me a deeper ability to connect with others, and I want to bring that perspective into every patient interaction. Receiving this scholarship would mean more than financial support—it would be a meaningful acknowledgment of everything I’ve overcome and the kind of compassionate, thoughtful healthcare provider I’m striving to become. I know how transformative it is to feel truly seen and supported—because I’ve lived the difference it can make, and that’s the kind of care I’m committing to providing. Everyone has a story, often filled with silent battles the world may never see. My goal is to be a light in the midst of those struggles, to walk with people through their pain, and to leave behind more than just a treatment plan—but hope, healing, and the courage to keep going.

When reflecting on my life and the experiences that have shaped my path, one of the most impactful moments was witnessing my grandmother’s battle with breast cancer. Though I couldn’t be there for her in the way I wanted, her journey opened my eyes to the profound realities of hereditary breast cancer, the importance of regular checkups, and the true value of life itself. Growing up, I always admired my grandmother for her strength and resilience, but seeing her face this disease was a wake-up call. I hadn’t fully grasped the emotional and physical impact cancer would have, not just on my grandmother, but on our entire family. It made me realize how unpredictable life can be and how fragile health is. Watching her fight, and ultimately lose, her battle with cancer taught me that life is precious, and we should never take our time or our health for granted. One of the most significant lessons I learned from her experience was the importance of prevention and early detection. Her diagnosis emphasized the need for regular checkups and understanding our family’s health history. This awareness shifted my perspective on healthcare, motivating me to learn more about cancer, genetics, and the role preventative measures can play in saving lives. I became increasingly passionate about helping others avoid similar struggles and navigate their own health journeys with the same care and proactive approach I wish I could’ve had with my grandmother. Though I didn’t have the chance to help my grandmother directly through her cancer journey, her struggle profoundly influenced my decision to pursue a healthcare career in helping others lead happy, meaningful, and purposeful lives. The experience deepened my desire to contribute to the well-being of others, not just physically but emotionally and mentally as well. I realized that by working in healthcare, I could not only help individuals during their most vulnerable moments but also educate them on the importance of prevention and support them in maintaining a fulfilling life despite the challenges they may face. My academic and professional goals are now focused on empowering others through education, compassion, and support, in ways I wish I could have provided for my grandmother. I aspire to work in a field where I can make a tangible impact, whether through healthcare, counseling, or advocacy, to ensure others understand their health and have the resources they need to live life to its fullest. Cancer, while deeply painful, gave me a purpose — to prevent, support, and uplift those who face similar challenges. Ultimately, my grandmother’s journey with cancer transformed my outlook on life, and her memory continues to drive my passion for helping others. Though I cannot undo the pain she experienced, I hope to honor her by dedicating my life’s work to preventing suffering and improving the quality of life for others facing health challenges.

My name is Hannah Bates, and I’m working toward my Doctorate in Physical Therapy at the University of South Dakota. I was born with a rare lymphatic malformation on my forehead that’s become more noticeable as I’ve gotten older. Growing up, I often felt different—people stared, and I struggled with self-esteem. Over time, I’ve learned to lean into resilience and find strength in who I am. Those experiences have shaped the way I view others and fueled my passion for physical therapy. I know how much it means to feel seen, heard, and supported. That’s what I want to give my patients. For me, physical therapy isn’t just about recovery—it’s about connection, trust, and helping people move forward, even through the hard times. When reflecting on my life and the experiences that have shaped my path, one of the most impactful moments was witnessing my grandmother’s battle with breast cancer. Though I couldn’t be there for her in the way I wanted, her journey opened my eyes to the profound realities of hereditary breast cancer, the importance of regular checkups, and the true value of life itself. Growing up, I always admired my grandmother for her strength and resilience, but seeing her face this disease was a wake-up call. I hadn’t fully grasped the emotional and physical impact cancer would have, not just on my grandmother, but on our entire family. It made me realize how unpredictable life can be and how fragile health is. Watching her fight, and ultimately lose, her battle with cancer taught me that life is precious, and we should never take our time or our health for granted. One of the most significant lessons I learned from her experience was the importance of prevention and early detection. Her diagnosis emphasized the need for regular checkups and understanding our family’s health history. This awareness shifted my perspective on healthcare, motivating me to learn more about cancer, genetics, and the role preventative measures can play in saving lives. I became increasingly passionate about helping others avoid similar struggles and navigate their own health journeys with the same care and proactive approach I wish I could’ve had with my grandmother. Though I didn’t have the chance to help my grandmother directly through her cancer journey, her struggle profoundly influenced my decision to pursue a healthcare career in helping others lead happy, meaningful, and purposeful lives. The experience deepened my desire to contribute to the well-being of others, not just physically but emotionally and mentally as well. I realized that by working in healthcare, I could not only help individuals during their most vulnerable moments but also educate them on the importance of prevention and support them in maintaining a fulfilling life despite the challenges they may face. My academic and professional goals are now focused on empowering others through education, compassion, and support, in ways I wish I could have provided for my grandmother. I aspire to work in a field where I can make a tangible impact, whether through healthcare, counseling, or advocacy, to ensure others understand their health and have the resources they need to live life to its fullest. Cancer, while deeply painful, gave me a purpose — to prevent, support, and uplift those who face similar challenges. Ultimately, my grandmother’s journey with cancer transformed my outlook on life, and her memory continues to drive my passion for helping others. Though I cannot undo the pain she experienced, I hope to honor her by dedicating my life’s work to preventing suffering and improving the quality of life for others facing health challenges.