Lauren (age 19) isn’t afraid of following her dreams!
A remarkable young woman, Lauren is committed to defining her life by her dreams, actions, and words, instead of by her diagnosis. Lauren suffers from Spinal Muscular Atrophy, a neuromuscular disease that causes severe muscle weakness and requires her to be dependent on mechanical ventilation.
Many things have changed for Lauren since WGN aired her story last fall. Not only has she exceeded her fundraising goal of $55,000, but Lauren already has the keys to her new wheelchair-accessible van that will comfortably take her to college later this year.
Picking Up “Noel”
A few days before Christmas, Lauren and her dad, David, travelled to MobilityWorks in Plainfield to pick up their new wheelchair-accessible van. WGN followed them to capture the experience for Lauren and all of her fans!
Lauren affectionately refers to her new van as “Noel.”
What’s Next?
Lauren begins college at Olivet Nazarene University this fall—and is eagerly awaiting her first day! She plans to study music and social work.
“So many people have helped me throughout my life. I want to do the same,” says Lauren.
As Lauren prepares for college, she is available to speak to local communities and organizations about her inspiring story. You can find her on Facebook at Limitless Lauren to learn more about speaking opportunities and updates!
“People say Lauren inspires them.” David continues, “They inspire us right back!”
Congratulations, Lauren! You are off to an incredible start in 2015!