Kacee Balderama didn’t get the luxury of growing up slowly. After losing her father and becoming a caregiver for her mother, sister, and infant nephew, Kacee put her education on hold to support her family. She later returned to school with renewed purpose, balancing a full-time job, household duties, and independent study coursework at Jamison High. Even under the weight of grief and responsibility, Kacee never gave up. Thanks to her relentless work ethic and the steady support of school staff, Kacee graduated from Jamison High in June. She now plans to attend College of the Sequoias and pursue a career in neonatal nursing or ultrasound technology. Editor’s Note: Since our interview with Kacee, she has been diagnosed with ovarian cancer. A GoFundMe has been created to help cover her medical expenses at bit.ly/3KhOFLD.