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Editor
Avery
On this page we will introduce you to many Leaders……..with Swag. You will find that a normal kid like you can make a huge impact on your community. And they live right here in your backyard. Well, not literally. You’re never too young to make a difference, so don’t look down on yourself, look UP to yourself!
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Before we get started, I would like to know:
If you were queen of the world, what is the first thing you would do?
First I would buy a horse farm, then I would donate money to helpful charities.This month we feature our first Student with Swag, the electric Eleanor Lee. Why did we choose Eleanor? In June Eleanor led a fundraising walk and gave a speech for the Crohn’s and Colitis Fundraising Association (CCFA). She, and her family and friends, raised a whopping $6,000+, which was more than any other family group. Eleanor is 14 years old and is in 9th grade at Wilde Lake High School. Following is my interview with her. Read on to find out how she became a leader.
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Could you explain what Crohn’s disease and colitis are?
Crohn’s is an autoimmune disease that affects the digestive system. Many people with Crohn’s also have arthritis. I was diagnosed when I was two, when I was very sick and hospitalized for a long time, and I’ve taken many powerful medicines every day since then to get my disease into remission.
How did you get involved in the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation Walk/Fundraiser?
I participated in the walk in 2011, and then I was asked by CCFA to be the honored hero at this 2012 walk. I invited lots of friends to come, and it was really fun.
What inspired you to raise money for them?
They try to find a cure for the disease, and the money also goes towards fun things like sleep away camp for kids with Crohn’s and colitis.
Why do you think you were chosen to lead the walk and speak at the event?
I guess from all of the money we raised last year, and from going to camp and learning about it there. I think it is also powerful for people to hear the story of young people who have struggled with Crohn’s and are growing up strong and determined anyway.
Were you nervous when you got on stage and gave the speech?
I was kind of nervous, but my friends and my brother’s friends all stood up on the stage with me, so it was really fun. I had practiced the speech a few times before, but it was not that hard.
Before this event had you ever thought of yourself as a leader capable of doing exceptional things that would inspire others?
Not really. This experience helped me learn about public speaking. But I also learned that it is really important and fun to contribute to a good cause. I will definitely look for leadership opportunities again.
Three Kidzpost writers and one little brother join the walk in support of Eleanor and the CFFA
What is your leadership style?
I just try to listen to everyone else, and have a good time.
What do you think is the most important quality for a leader to have, and why?
I think it is important for leaders to listen to everyone else’s ideas and to use them fairly.
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And that's not all Eleanor excells in! Despite her Crohn's disease, Eleanor has always been an active athlete. Here she is at her first junior varsity horse show, where she took first place in all three of her events and was named grand champion for her division. See pictures below.
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