Family
Family is one of the most important parts of my life, and I’m grateful to say that I’m lucky enough to have two families. After dating my boyfriend for four years, I’ve had the honor of not only loving the family I was born into but also becoming part of his. Having two families has given me twice the support, twice the love, and countless memories that I truly cherish.
My Siblings
In my immediate family, I have three wonderful siblings. My brother Cullen, 21, is graduating this spring from the University of Minnesota Duluth with his degree in electrical engineering. Cullen is not only incredibly caring and funny but also always makes time for his sisters, which shows his thoughtfulness that inspires me every day. Next is my sister Katie, who is 20 and is studying Physical Therapy at St. Kate’s. Katie is organized, intelligent, and dependable. Honestly, she’s the glue that holds all of us together. We are so lucky to have her, as she always knows how to make everyone feel supported and loved. And lastly, there’s Courtney, the 14-year-old baby of the family. She’s a freshman at Anoka High and has grown so much since I left for college. Courtney is energetic, outgoing, and has a heart bigger than anyone I know, always ready to bring joy and laughter to our family. I feel incredibly grateful to have grown up with three siblings who care so deeply for me. Their love, humor, and support have shaped who I am, and I truly feel lucky to have them in my life.
My Parents
My parents are truly some of the kindest and most remarkable people you’ll ever meet. My mom is thoughtful, compassionate, and always ready to listen or offer advice when her children need it most. She has a way of making everyone around her feel cared for and understood, and her generosity extends far beyond our family, but to everyone around her as well. My dad is steady, patient, and incredibly dependable. He has a natural ability to make everyone feel welcome and valued, and his protective nature ensures that his family always comes first. Together, my parents have built a loving and positive home, full of support, laughter, and encouragement. Growing up in that environment has shaped who I am today, and I am forever grateful for the love, guidance, and unwavering care they have given my siblings and me.
My Second Family
I’m lucky to have been in a 4-year relationship with my boyfriend, Charlie, which has given me the incredible gift of a second family. This family is made up of four truly remarkable people. Melissa is one of the strongest and kindest people I’ve ever met. She always puts others first and loves her family unconditionally, and her love and strength make everyone around her feel safe and supported. Then there was her husband, Miles. Miles passed away unexpectedly while we were all in Punta Cana on our senior spring break on March 15th, 2025. He was one of the most generous, loving, and genuine people I’ve ever known, someone who truly cared for everyone in his life and had a way of making you feel seen and valued all of the time. Next is Anna, who feels like another little sister to me. She is sweet, funny, and caring, and she always brings light into every situation. And finally, there’s Charlie, the reason I have this second family. He is loving, selfless, and one of the strongest people I know. He has this incredible ability to make me smile even on the hardest days, and he always gives me advice that seems to be right 99% of the time, guiding me through challenges with patience and understanding. I am so grateful for this family, who have welcomed me with open arms and shown me so much love.
"Family is not an important thing, it's everything."
Michael J. Fox