2012 Walk Now for Austism Speaks: Georgia

In elementary school, I was in a classroom that included students with high functioning autism and Asperger's syndrome. These students became my friends and some are still with me in high school. These friends are the reason I decided to walk in Atlanta's 2012 Walk Now for Autism Speaks to raise money for autism research.

Visit my team site at http://www.walknowforautismspeaks.org/faf/search/searchTeamPart.asp?ievent=997071&lis=1&kntae997071=2409E383AAB8454AA28458EF57D33141&team=5054749&tlteam=0.

Kasey and I had planned to walk together, but unfortunately she was ill and unable to walk. My mom joined me for the cause, along with several teachers who walked for some of their students.

Special Olympics Opening Ceremony

Kasey and I had the pleasure of attending the opening ceremonies for the Atlanta Special Olympics. While we were there, we met some of the amazing athletes and discussed their upcoming competitions. It was a joy to hear them proudly tell us about their training and confidently express their talents. This appearance reminded me how God has blessed each of us with our own gifts. I am so appreciative of those that shared theirs with me. It was easy to keep a smile on my face around this group of athletes.

Gwinnett Relay for Life

Kasey and I participated in the Gwinnett County Relay for Life Event; Kasey as a volunteer and member of the Sycamore ES team, and myself as a member of the North Gwinnett High School team. Because I was representing my school on this night, I chose not to wear my crown or sash. I realize now, just because I wasn't wearing my pageant gear doesn't mean I wasn't representing my title. Because USA pageants promote service and leadership, everything I do is a reflection on my title and the pageant system. In my year as USA's Junior Teen Miss Georgia, I have worn my visible and invisible crown proudly. Each day I have done my best to be a role model to other girls, to display the morals and values of a leader and to truly make a difference in the world.

If you would like to make a donation or see mine and Kasey's contributions to RFL, click on the links below.

Courtney's Site http://main.acsevents.org/site/TR/RelayForLife/RFLFY12SA?px=26263982&pg=personal&fr_id=39714

Kasey's Site http://main.acsevents.org/site/TR/RelayForLife/RFLFY12SA?px=28376471&pg=personal&fr_id=39714

Kasey holding a luminar prior to the friends & family walk.

Courtney's Relay Team