“HOPE inspires everyone who is a part of it. It fosters true college-to-community fellowship,” says Beth. Beth, who will be attending medical school in fall 2007, attributes her HOPE service as a changing point in her life: “Being partnered with Morgan at The Children’s Center for the Physically Disabled literally changed my life. She showed me that courage, determination, and sheer force of will could overcome any obstacle, and I feel honored to have met her and hope that, as a physician, I will be able to use those lessons to help others.”

How did HOPE change Beth’s life? It’s simple…through unexpected moments that yield lasting memories HOPE had an impact on Beth. Beth clearly remembers her most memorable experience with HOPE when she was invited on a field trip, accompanying Morgan, to a stable for therapeutic horse-back riding. Beth recalls, “Morgan had severe cerebral palsy, but, as the other children took their turns riding, her teacher asked if I wanted to walk with her. How I wondered silently when her legs are too weak to support her? Regardless, the teacher lifted her from her chair and showed me how to hold her hands up, to take most of her weight off of her legs. With a physical effort that would certainly shame a bodybuilder, this courageous little girl gathered her strength, lifted a knee, and took a tiny step. She couldn’t walk more than four or five steps—a total distance of less than two feet—but she had done it. She showed me what true courage looks like and just what one could accomplish through sheer determination and strength of will.”