Inspired February 2015 Inspired February 2015 | Page 17
FEATURE
One morning, I woke up and announced that I was going to school
without her wig. Since my classmates had seen me with my hair,
over the past 5 months, my mom was concerned that the other kids
would be shocked if I arrived at school totally bald.
But I was determined that was what I wanted to do. I felt that she
was “hiding who I was.” I liked the comfort and ease of just being
bald. So at 8 years of age, I bravely marched into my 3rd grade
classroom without hair.
Ironically, nothing bad happened. The teacher explained my
situation to the other students and they were just fine with my
decision.
My hair loss could have devastated
my life, but instead it has given me a
powerful platform to share my message.
I have shared my story of living with
alopecia with literally thousands of kids/
teens through out Central Indiana and
beyond.
To find out more about Olivia’s Cause,
please go to her website and check out
more information.
That day changed my life forever.
What began as my desire to be “myself”, quickly evolved into a
message that “It’s Okay to be Different,” anti-bullying and teen
suicide prevention.
Since launching my lecture program in 2009, I have shared my
story and message with thousands of kids/teens at schools,
churches, events and with organizations throughout central
Indiana and beyond.
I won The Power of Children Award from The Indianapolis
Children’s Museum. I received The Highlights Gallant Kid Award
from Highlights Magazine for Kids. I was selected by Seventeen
Magazine as one of their “Pretty Amazing Girls Of The Week.” I
was feature on the website in Ann Shoket’s blog and I have the
exclusive use of the “Pretty Amazing Girl” button.
In 2012, I added author to my list of accomplishments,when I wrote
and published, “Just Your Average Teenager, Who Happens To
Be Bald.” This year, we are beginning the production of a movie
called, “Wig’d Out.”
POWER OF PHILANTHROPY
CONTEST FEBRUARY WINNER
What is Philanthropy? Philanthropy is simply voluntary action for the public good, or all the ways that people give
of their time, talent and treasure. We are looking for submissions from high school students surrounding your
experiences with community service, social justice, fundraising, giving, and/or any other way you have made a
difference in the lives of others. We will accept poems, narratives, photographs, art work, videos, etc. around the
theme of philanthropy. Submissions from October through April can be sent to [email protected]
The IU Lilly Family School or Philanthropy is offering a scholarship to the winner of the contest in the amount of
$1500 annually for four years.
February’s monthly winner of this contest is Olivia Rusk, a senior at Fishers High School.
www.readinspiredmag.org
Express Yourself 17