James Dykes Last Lecture

When James Dykes was a sophomore in high school, he was diagnosed with Friedrich's ataxia, a progressive disease that attacks the nervous system and greatly shortens life expectancy. Despite the prognosis, James pushed past the adversity to complete his college degree, one of his life goals. He became an inspiration to teachers, students and others who encountered his determination in each course. He even continued to press on bravely his senior year despite a heart attack, congestive heart failure, and eventual dependency on a wheelchair. In Dykes' honor, his Missouri State University professor, Philip Rothschild, established the James Dykes Award for Courage and Determination. The award is given to a MSU business student who overcomes obstacles to graduate. After six years of college, James Dykes lived his dream and graduated from MSU in 2005. He passed away the following year. For more information about the James Dykes Award for Courage and Determination and how you can contribute, please visit http://courses.missouristate.edu/philrothschild/james/.

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• James
• Dykes
• Courage
• Award

[vishcanada]

Really inspiring story.