Hi, my name is Gregory Burroughs II, and I am soon to be a high school graduate at Southwest. I am 18 years old and I have a rare disability called Arthrogryposis.

Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenita - or AMC for short is a musculoskeletal disorder that can affect growth and mobility, and some - as I do - experience muscle weakness. Basically, I have a severe limitation of range in motion for several of my joints (my feet, legs, hips, hands, and jaw). Since I was 18 months old I've had countless surgeries, doctor visits, and physical therapy that has led me to where I am now. I am still working on becoming independent with tasks that the average person would not need assistance with but I am getting there. My independence and growth is something I have put a lot of effort into. From learning to crawl, walk and talk. To feeding myself and taking care of my own personal hygiene. Things that some may take for granted but that has taken me years to be able to accomplish on my own. Having the support of my loved ones and friends has been a joy and a blessing. I really appreciate everything the Sesostris Shrine and the Twin Cities Shrine Hospital has done for me and my family. So when I have the opportunity it's where I spend some of my time volunteering.

I am reaching out and asking for help funding my college education. I am enrolled at SCC, in the Computer Information Technology program that is starting this fall 2023. My goal is to get a degree in IT and cyber security. I'm looking forward to then continuing my education at UNL and I also want to pursue ESPORTS and work with content development.

I know college requires hard work and I know I am capable of handling this workload. In my junior year at SW high school, I attended SCC's Career Academy IT program and did very well.

Some of my accomplishments have been scholar of the year, honor roll with distinction, and perfect attendance. I also received the scholar-athlete award with a 3.74 GPA, and a varsity letter in Unified Bowling.

As I mentioned prior I am still working on becoming independent. Having the support of my loved ones and friends has been a joy and a blessing. We have a shortfall on the funds I would need for college, and so I am reaching out to the community to ask for help. While my family have been there for me every step of the way with the costs associated with surgeries and pt, bodily equipment adjustments - like the braces, and AFO's (Ankle Foot Orthoses) etc. There just isn't a lot available for college with living costs.

If you can donate or share with friends and family I would highly appreciate it.