Inspirational Graduate

Jet, July 26, 1999

INSPIRATIONAL GRADUATE: Wheelchair-bound Larry Barnett, Jr. addresses his graduating class during commencement ceremonies at Buena Vista High School in Saginaw, MI. Though paralyzed from the neck down since he was struck by a car at age 6, the feisty 19-year-old endured surgery, intensive therapy and legal battles to enable him to attend regular school classes and graduate with his fellow classmates.

He was awarded the high school's True Knight Award in tribute to his valor, courage and perseverance. Barnett plans to major in computer science. He will enter Delta College this fall and later plans to continue his studies at Michigan State University. He told his fellow graduates: "God allowed me to be placed in this situation. I can succeed through Him and anyone who has obstacles can do the same. There are no excuses, only people who make them."