Dear Magee-Womens Foundation,

I would like to express my sincere gratitude to all of the doctors, nurses, medical and support personnel at Magee’s Transitional Infant Care (TIC) and Echo Medical, in my initial care and treatment as a premature infant. Without the skill and dedication of the people involved in my care, I would not be writing this today.

Early in life I faced many obstacles. With faith and a large support network, I was encouraged to believe, that with hard work and dedication, I could succeed in life’s endeavors. Although I am hearing impaired and still have somewhat of a narrow airway, I have accepted these issues and also life’s challenges.

In my experience with the many ups and downs associated with prematurity throughout my life, I have tried to turn any negative into a positive. My parents always encouraged me to do the best that I could, so as not to cheat myself of life’s opportunities – although not often easy, anything worthwhile, deserves your best effort.

Brett Glavey (right) was born in December 1988 weighing 1lb. 5 oz. after just 23 weeks' gestation. He was given an 8 percent chance of surviving. Now, at 18, Brett is ready to focus on the next chapter of his life and face the challenges of college.

My focus in life so far has been music, art and academics. I am a 2007 graduate of Sharpsville High School. I was very involved in my school’s band program. I was in the concert, marching and jazz bands – playing clarinet, tenor saxophone, and alto saxophone respectively. I was in concert band for 7 years, marching band for 5 and jazz band for 3. I am also proud to have received academic achievement awards throughout my school years. I was a member of various clubs – art, chess and Spanish to name a few. I also wrote for my school’s newspaper occasionally.

I am also a proud member of Sharpsville’s National

Honor Society.

I will be attending Westminster College in the fall, leaning toward the field of sociology. I hope and pray that these few words will put a smile on someone’s face, at least for a moment, for in the race of life, it’s not where you start, but where you finish. To the parents of children like myself, there’s power in prayer and don’t ever give up hope. Allow your children to pursue their happiness and fulfill their dreams.

Sincerely,

Brett Glavey

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