Exchange Club of Grayslake ACE Award winners shine

The Exchange Club of Grayslake congratulates this year's winners of the ACE Award: Sofia Fey of Grayslake North High School and Adam Kain of Grayslake Central High School.

ACE stands for "Accepting the Challenge of Excellence." This program recognizes high school students who have made a dramatic change in their attitude and performance during their high school years. These changes have enabled the students to overcome adversities and prepare for graduation.

Sofia did not have the best home life growing up. She was acting as a surrogate mother to her two younger siblings. As she turned 18, she moved out and into her grandparents' home so that she could continue her studies and remain in high school. Sofia has now graduated and will continue her life at the University of Illinois studying theater.

Adam suffered a traumatic brain injury during his sophomore year. He was confined to his home with no stimulation at all: no TV, no phone or computer. Adam also had to give up hockey, a game he loved.

For many this would have been debilitating, but Adam rose up to carry on. He completed his sophomore year and has since graduated and works part time despite living in constant pain.

Both are deserving of this award.

If you know someone who has overcome obstacles in high school and will be a senior next year (2014-15) at GNHS, GCHS or Cyd Lash Academy, encourage them to fill out an application at www.exchangeofgrayslake.org.

For information, visit the website or email glexchangeclub@gmail.com.

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