At a young age, Hannah Blob is exposed to a child with special needs.

Hannah’s cousin lives everyday with a condition called Cerebral Palsy.

Although this condition has a strong grasp on her cousin’s life, Hannah strives to view the world as welcoming.

“I look up to her. Having a difficult life, but always having a reason to be happy — it’s a trait everyone can admire.”

Advancing through the levels of school, Hannah, a senior,  functions as a natural advocate for people with mental disorders. Reprimanding those who make fun and call names.

Today more than ever, people correlate these hurtful names to mean dumb, stupid, or any other insult that escapes their mouths without the benefit of thought.

One of the most common things Hannah hears after she stands up against these names is: “I meant stupid.” or “Why do you care?”

Thankfully people care.

Since she can remember, Hannah uses her voice to help those in need. “I’ve been persistent in what I say from the beginning. My friends don’t say it anymore, and others around me know not to.”

In her eyes, people need to treat these disgusting names and insults as if they are any other vulgar word.

“They’re words that never have to be used.”

If everyone models the compassion Hannah possesses for individuals, the halls of NHS and streets of Neenah thrive; The world needs more advocates for people with special needs.

“They shouldn’t be categorized.” No one should.

Today, insults are thrown like grenades in the hall. Students need to do their part to advocate change. Learning from Hannah’s actions promotes compassion and respect for all.