Star Student: Ivy Excels In Overcoming Obstacles In Abington Twp.

ABINGTON TOWNSHIP, PA —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 Erin Glaser, who nominated Ivy.

Star local student’s name

Ivy, a fourth grader from Abington Township

Star local student’s home state

Pennsylvania

How do you know the star local student?

Mother

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

Ivy is a kind, smart, funny, and resilient 9-year-old. Ivy was born with a rare birth defect known as Spina Bifida and two years ago was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. She’s faced many obstacles in her young life but has not let them slow her down. She brings joy and light to everyone she encounters. For the last two years, Ivy has participated in the Copper Beech Science Fair. Last year she designed a medical device that could help her friend with cerebral palsy hold a pencil. She earned the best solution to a problem for her design. Earlier this year, Ivy earned the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Peace Award at her school for demonstrating cooperation, positive attitude, respect, empathy, and safety. In her free time, Ivy enjoys participating in Martial arts and wheelchair basketball. She has been playing wheelchair basketball with her team Katie’s Komets for the past 2 years. This past weekend they qualified for the Junior National Championship tournament, which features the top 16 prep teams (13 years and under) from around the country. At the end of the tournament, the coaches of all the teams collectively voted for Ivy to receive the Sportsmanship Award.

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

She has not allowed her disabilities to define her. She is a strong advocate for herself and others like her. She dreams of becoming a scientist or engineer who will invent things to help people like her.

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

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Know an outstanding student who deserves a shout-out? Nominate them here.