'Making Her Part Of The World A Better Place': Oswego Star Student

OSWEGO, IL — Star Students are found in classrooms, on concert and theater stages and at debate lecterns, and out in the community doing good things to make life better for all of us.

Here at Patch, we've launched an initiative to help recognize Star Students, and we’re working to tell the stories of these outstanding kids to their neighbors.

This submission comes from Mary Ann Reingold who nominated her daughter, Lilly, a senior at Oswego East High School.

Star local student’s name

Lilly, a senior at Oswego East High School

Star local student’s home state

Illinois

How do you know the star local student?

Mom

Why do you believe the star local student should be recognized?

Lillian is an Ambassador Girl Scout completing the final steps of her Gold Award. She developed her own program called HEART - C (Hospital Environmental Anxiety Relief Through Crochet). She began working closely with Lisa Lapinski, Executive Administrator Director of Philanthropy at Rush Copley Hospital in Aurora over the past summer, as well as the Oswego East High School Crochet Club. HEART-C works with three populations in the hospital setting under great stress: hospitalized children, adults going through cancer treatment, and the nursing/hospital staff. HEART-C provides crocheted animals for patients and staff, and monthly crochet kits for adult patients and hospital staff. Most recently Lilly taught a crochet class at the Waterford Cancer Resource Center, and provided participants with crocheted animals to take home. Based on her research, Lilly's philosophy is that engaging in simple crafts helps us focus on the present and relieve stress. She established a website as well so simple lessons may be virtual. Lilly will be attending Waubonsee Community College in the Fall and plans on continuing her work with HEART-C maintaining connections with the Oswego East High School Crochet Club so her project will benefit the community for years to come, making her part of the world a better place.

What's one thing you want everyone to know about the star local student?

Lillian is the epitome of the Girl Scout Law, serving her community, and helping people at all times.

Congratulations on your achievements, and all of our best wishes to you in the future, Lilly!

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Know an outstanding student? Nominate them here.