Read more: Local, Education, Community, Disabling Disease, Student, Proved Doctors Wrong, Graduate with Honors
She was born with a disabling disease and told she wouldn't be able to learn, but this week, a student who proved her doctors wrong, will graduate with honors.
18-year-old Jasmine Bethea proudly sits in her motorized wheelchair during graduation practice at Marlboro County High School. Jasmine was born with Cerebral Palsy, and her mother was told graduation day would never come for her daughter.
"They told me to put her in an institution and to basically go on with my life that she wouldn't be able to learn," said Lorraine Ross.
Lorraine says she had no life without Jasmine and refused to give up on her daughter. Jasmine, although unable to speak, is still able to learn. She made it through to the 12th grade and even mastered using a computer, with a specially designed device to help her tap the keys. Sherilyn Yearty is Jasmine's teacher.
"She has just been amazing. I may have been the teacher, but she's been a teacher. She's taught me all kinds of things"
This week, Jasmine's Junior ROTC instructor gave her a certificate for winning an essay contest. He says it touched his heart.
"I have read literally thousands of essays over the years, and I had a lump in my throat and a tear in my eye," said Lt. Colonel Justin Blum.
Jasmine's mother says her daughter's accomplishments make her want to cry too.
"I can't even express how proud I am of my daughter, of the things that she's done, growing up that they said she wouldn't able to do."
This Friday, Jasmine will proudly graduate with her fellow classmates. She hopes to one day continue her education in college and use technology to become a motivational speaker.
