May 22, 2015. Nazareth student Madison (Madi) Lozanoski received the KJO Scholarship today.
Excerpt from Brenda’s speech.
Today, Kelli’s Family is pleased to recognize an outstanding young woman at Nazareth Academy who reflects Kelli’s spirit of both doing good and doing well.
This young woman took our breath away when she wrote, “I believe compassion is shown through moments that take your breath away.”
That’s quite a perceptive statement from her essay, in which she revealed how much she was impacted by others in the course of her service and volunteerism.
Among other activities, she is a volunteer at FISH House, a home for adults with severe mental and physical disabilities. She talked about a man named Gerry who, after working with her for months, mouthed the words “Thank you!” to her.
She shared stories of similar memorable moments, like when she was moved to replace the cancelled Relay for Life with a new event called “Lights Out for Cancer.” Thanks to her efforts and dedication – and sheer force of will! — that event raised more than $11,000 for the American Cancer Society.
This remarkable young woman knew our Kelli personally, and was the same age as our daughter. She says that after what happened to Kelli, she has valued life more than ever and sought to make a positive impact on the world.
I’d say she certainly has.
This year’s Kelli Joy O’Laughlin Memorial Foundation Scholarship winner is Madison Lozanoski.
