The siblings were nominated for this contest by their mother, who shared: 

“Grayson (8), Annalise (8), and Annabella (11) have shown incredible strength, from stepping up at home and supporting each other with unwavering love. They help with daily tasks, keep their dad’s spirits high, and maintain a sense of normalcy despite the challenges.  

Grayson brings joy through yo-yoing and Annalise provides emotional support, ensuring laughter and comfort remain part of their home. Annabella leads by example, balancing school, volunteering, ballet, and helping her siblings.   Beyond our family, they extend their kindness to other Veterans, bringing smiles to those in the hospital through small acts of joy and gratitude often striking up conversations. Their resilience, compassion, and selflessness make them true role models. 

Grayson, Annalise, and Annabella embody the strength, resilience, and a service-minded spirit. They have faced challenges that require adaptability, selflessness, and unwavering support. They operate as a team, stepping up when needed and always looking out for one another.  

Grayson leads through perseverance, using yo-yoing not only as a personal passion but a way to inspire and teach others. Annalise provides steady emotional support, ensuring that no one in our family or community feels alone in their struggles. Annabella leads by example, balancing school, ballet, and volunteer work while finding ways to uplift those around her.   Their sense of duty extends beyond their home. Whether visiting Veterans in the hospital to bring smiles, or building a community through their yo-yo club, they demonstrate the core values of service, resilience, and leadership. Their actions of standing strong together, lifting others up, and always finding ways to serve show that no matter your age you can inspire and impact others.  

Grayson, a passionate competitive yo-yo player, wanted to share his love of yo-yoing with others, and his siblings enthusiastically joined him in making that dream a reality. Together, they helped form a local yo-yo club where they teach other kids how to throw, learn new tricks, and develop confidence in a fun and supportive environment. Annalise plays an active role in encouraging new members and helping to create a welcoming space, while Annabella assists in organizing club activities and ensuring younger kids feel included. Their teamwork and shared commitment to uplifting others through this unique hobby have built a community where children of all skill levels can come together to learn and grow.”