By Alisa

My Grandpa Rupp changed my life. His nickname for me was “Little Sweetheart.” He had heart disease and arthritis very bad. When he was only 58 years old, he had 5 bypasses in his heart and more bypasses later. Even though it was hard for him to move, he walked every day, so his heart would stay strong. He lived to be 90 years old. He never gave up… even if it rained or snowed, he would still walk. He had lots of pain, but he always helped others and was happy and kind to everyone.

My Grandpa is my champion and that is why I am starting a long-time dream of starting my own business. My company is called “From the Heart.” I will donate $5 from each necklace I sell to help Special Olympic athletes like me.

Never give up, just keep on trying and you will not fail. I know because I’ve been there. I am grateful to my family, my friends, and to my Special Olympics coaches for helping me not to be afraid to do my best. I love my Heavenly Father who loves me no matter what.

~Alisa Ann Ogden