17-year-old Annie is always on the move.
Her days begin early: checking the weather, reviewing her schedule, and making sure she knows exactly what’s ahead. She thrives on routine, tackling each morning with a plan and purpose. While she needs support with some daily tasks, Annie is constantly working toward greater independence, setting goals and pushing herself forward. By 7:30 a.m., she’s off to Ladue High School, where full days of classes, therapies, and time with friends await.
“Everyday life with Annie and her sisters is busy, sometimes challenging but always rewarding!” her mom, Jill, shares.
Annie lives with Cerebral Palsy – Spastic/Diplegia, a diagnosis that has shaped, but never defined her journey. From an early age, Annie and her family faced uncertainty. Complications during pregnancy led to developmental concerns, and by six months, it was clear Annie’s path would look different. At age two, she was diagnosed with cerebral palsy, and therapy quickly became part of her everyday life.
What followed was a journey marked by perseverance.
Learning to walk was not easy. It required determination, patience, and resilience beyond her years. With the help of a walker, and an unshakable spirit, Annie kept going even when it was hard. Over time, that walker became not just a tool, but a symbol of her independence. Through multiple surgeries and ongoing challenges, Annie continued to show remarkable strength.
“She didn’t ever let it affect her attitude or smile though. Annie’s resiliency came through at an early age.”
Annie’s schedule is full, not just with school, but with the things she loves most. Whether it’s cheer, swimming, rock climbing, or time with friends, she embraces every opportunity. But above all, Annie loves music.
Music is her motivator, her joy, and her outlet. She sings in the car, listens to songs before bed, and she brings energy and enthusiasm to every performance. It’s no surprise that when Annie found her way to Variety’s performing arts programs, something just clicked.
Her journey with Variety began in elementary school at Adventure Camp, where she discovered the joy of trying new things and building friendships in a welcoming environment. Over time, that connection grew through Variety Chorus, Dance, and the COCA collaboration; programs that would go on to become a core part of her life.
“Going to Variety chorus and dance every Tuesday is one of the things Annie looks forward to most.”
Through these programs, Annie found more than just activities; she found purpose. That purpose came into full focus last summer during a musical theatre production of Seussical. After three weeks of rehearsals, Annie faced one of her biggest challenges yet: stepping onto the stage.
“When the final performances arrived, Annie was extremely nervous. Her anxiety kicked in and she worked herself up to the point she was almost sick. BUT, she rallied.”
“She worked up her courage and got on stage and ROCKED IT.”
With support from Variety staff and her peers, Annie found the courage to perform—and in doing so, experienced a breakthrough moment. From that day forward, something shifted. Annie’s confidence soared. She began initiating conversations more, taking greater independence at home, and carrying herself with a new sense of pride.
“It was a magical moment and that momentum still continues to this day.”
For Annie and her family, Variety has been transformational.
“Variety provides opportunities that Annie otherwise wouldn’t have, enabling her to grow in ways we didn’t know possible, giving her purpose and a safe and welcoming place to be herself, fit in, find friends and thrive.”
At its core, Jill describes Variety’s impact in one powerful word: OPPORTUNITY
“Variety has given Annie SO many opportunities that she otherwise wouldn’t have had and they have helped her to grow and thrive.”
Annie’s story is a reminder that when we focus on possibility instead of limitation, incredible things can happen.
“I wish people didn’t focus so much on the limits and instead more on the possibilities… these kids have so much POTENTIAL that just needs to be given a chance to be unlocked!”
Because of Variety, Annie has that chance and she’s making the most of it every single day.
But there are more kids just like Annie, waiting for their opportunity.
“Variety changes lives- from top to bottom (programs, staff, approach, etc.) Variety is there to open doors for kids who otherwise wouldn’t have them. It’s a happy, healthy, KIND place for kids with special needs to THRIVE.”
You can help open those doors. By supporting Variety, you’re not just funding programs—you’re creating moments of courage, confidence, friendship, and growth. You’re helping kids like Annie discover who they are and all they’re capable of becoming.
And those opportunities can change everything!
