Hannah’s story begins with prayer. Her name was chosen by her mother, who prayed for a little girl. Inspired by the Biblical story of Hannah, whose words were “For this child I prayed,” her mother’s prayers were answered. Hannah’s name means “God’s favor” or “God’s grace,” which is especially fitting, as her middle name is also Grace. Her family lovingly refers to her as “Grace Grace,” because she is doubly blessed with God’s grace.
Some people would define Hannah by her numerous diagnoses such as Cerebral Palsy, Epilepsy, Dysautonomia, CVI, and G-Tube dependant. We choose to define Hannah differently. She is a ray of sunshine and has a spirit that has been described as “sweet as honey.” Hannah is almost always happy. She has a smile that lights up her whole face and a laugh that is contagious. Hannah is also a little bit of a diva. The sign on their van says “Diva on wheels” which describes her perfectly. She arrives places with her sunglasses on and is ready to hold court with her numerous fans. Everywhere they go, people are drawn to Hannah and want to come talk to her. Every time they go to church, people young and old come and talk to Hannah and try to get her to smile. Her family jokes that they are just her entourage. Her teacher says that every time they go on community skills, at least one person knows Hannah by name. During her special needs tap dance recitals, Hannah will plant her feet in the gait trainer and refuse to move until the audience gives her class a standing ovation.
