When high school student Katie Shipley was born with a serious brain disease, doctors said she wouldn't live to go to school.
Now, Katie is not only about to graduate from Southridge High School in Oregon, but she was also named the school's prom (高中生正式舞会) queen.
Knowing Katie's wishes for the school's prom queen, her friend Courtney Travis began reaching out to find her the prom king she needed to make her a queen. Courtney found Michael Parks, who also thought it was a great idea.
"I really got to know Shipley," said Michael. "When you take time to get to know other people, it really gives you a great chance to live for more than yourself."
Courtney took a picture of the couple together and put it on her Twitter, explaining their plans for the prom. "It became very popular in the school," she said.
Their efforts paid off, and Katie was very excited to be named the school's prom queen.
On the day of the prom, Katie wore a very beautiful dress. Her grandmother, Joan Fraley, who also went to the prom, said the night would stay with her always.
"I was standing there and the children were shouting her name," she said. "They called her the new prom queen—I started crying. I'm greatly thankful to the students of Southridge High School."
Katie repeated that feeling.
"I just want to say thank you to my friends for all they did for me. I love you all."
Todd Corsetti, principal (校长) of Southridge High School, said that seeing Katie as the prom queen and the energy and help of his students was one of his "proudest moments".
"I think teenagers have great hearts and are really looking to make the world a better place," said Todd. "As we finish our school year, it's a great legacy (遗产) to leave the other classes who come after them."
