TPD. To most people, those are just three initials, but to me they stand for courage, compassion, and dedication. My dad, Thomas Patrick DiEnna, is the biggest role model in my life because of the way he always puts others before himself. Through his work in healthcare, the way he treats people, and the example he sets for my family, he has shown me what it really means to be a great father and person. While most people step away from stressful or dangerous situations, my dad always steps toward them. One moment I will never forget happened during a holiday dinner with my extended family. An older woman at a nearby table suddenly became unresponsive, and before anyone else could react, my dad and my uncle, who is a firefighter in Philadelphia, rushed over to help her. They stayed calm, checked her condition, and comforted her family until paramedics arrived. When the woman was safe, the entire restaurant broke into applause. In that moment, I realized that helping others is not just part of my dad’s job. It is part of who he is. My father’s selflessness didn’t end with his work at the hospital. He always found time to be present in my life and the lives of my brothers. He coached our soccer and basketball teams, teaching us the importance of teamwork, perseverance, and dedication. Balancing his career with being an involved father was no small feat, yet he managed it with grace. His ability to prioritize both is something I deeply admire and strive to emulate. No matter how long or stressful his shifts were, he still showed up for us. Whether it was helping us improve after a tough game, encouraging us to keep working hard, or simply being there when we needed him, he always gave us his full support. He has shown me what unconditional love looks like because no matter what happens, he is always there for our family. I have also seen my dad help strangers in everyday situations. I remember a motorcycle accident where everyone around seemed frozen in panic, but my dad immediately stepped in to help and comfort the injured rider until the ambulance arrived. Watching him stay calm under pressure taught me that true strength is not about attention or recognition. It is about doing the right thing and helping people when they need it most. To most people, TPD may simply stand for Thomas Patrick DiEnna. To me, those initials represent the kind of person I hope to become someday. Thank you, Dad, for guiding me and teaching me the importance of empathy, resilience, and service. Your example has shaped not only who I am but also who I strive to become. I hope that one day I can carry my own initials, MPD — Mason Patrick DiEnna — with the same kindness, strength, and selflessness that my dad shows every single day.

When my brother Jackson entered the world, he was already leaving it. His heart beat for only a few minutes, yet those brief moments altered the course of my life. Jackson was born with multiple brain defects, and although he never had the chance to grow, his life left me with a purpose. My youngest brother Jackson passed away a few years ago. Until October 13, 2015, I had never experienced or understood grief. That morning, we woke up early to go to the hospital, but instead of the excitement of meeting my brother, I was filled with worry and nerves. Jackson’s little life had not developed as it should, and though it was time to meet him, we already knew the heartbreak that awaited. The grief we felt wasn’t just about his passing, it stretched into the past and the future. We mourned not only his final breath but also the months leading up to that moment when we were told he wouldn’t develop properly. Along with that came the painful realization that all our dreams of park days, board games, and birthday celebrations would never come to be. It was an unbelievably hard day for me and my family. Although our time with him was brief it was full of love. Love for Jackson and also love for each other, from the comforting hug of my parents, to the support of my grandparents, and friends' condolence cards. In the embrace of those who cared for me, I found not only comfort but also the courage to continue forward. Although the pain is still present, all of these relationships helped me heal during the bereavement process. I want to be that love and comfort when others need support. Jackson's brief life instilled a passion for advocating for individuals with disabilities. Witnessing the challenges they face has ignited my desire to ensure all voices are heard and represented. I find meaning by volunteering with youth in programs like Special Stars and Create for Kids, which transformed my perspective on resilience and the importance of service. Special Stars engages children with special needs in developing soccer skills. I coached them through drills, offering guidance and encouragement. Watching these children experience the joy of learning new skills despite their challenges is humbling. I also enjoy thinking critically and constructing solid arguments, a skill I am working on in school. This passion aligns seamlessly with a career in law, where the ability to present clear, persuasive cases is crucial. I hope to use this skill to uplift and protect others. I plan to pursue a law degree, focusing on public interest law or civil rights, empowering myself with the knowledge to navigate and advocate for those who cannot advocate for themselves. I will apply for internships and volunteer opportunities that provide practical experience in legal advocacy, especially in supporting children and families facing challenges. My choice to pursue a career in government and law is personal. I hope to challenge injustices, ensuring fairness, especially those facing the greatest challenges. Jackson’s memory and the lessons I’ve learned through Special Stars and other volunteer experiences inspire me to fight for a world where every child can thrive.