DeLauren Shanyce Williams

Age: 14
Grade: 9
Market: Swansea, Illinois

DeLauren Shanyce Williams believes that people with epilepsy may be different, but they can also make a difference. An open-hearted and kind young woman, DeLauren has a charming smile and a bright optimism that have helped her and her family cope with misread prescriptions, lengthy hospital stays and doctor appointments during natural disasters.

A frequent volunteer, DeLauren said, “I would like for people to know that we are still kids. Everybody is different and I want people to respect everyone’s differences. Sometimes children with epilepsy have more challenges, but we still like to play, learn and have friends just like other kids. We can become adults who make differences in life!”