Against All Odds: Kierra Lee, Oxford Place Resident
Yates High School's Kierra Lee knows she beat almost inconceivable odds to graduate this month as class valedictorian. Kierra graduated from Yates High School, with support from the Houston Housing Authority, which she recognizes for providing a home and inspiration for a better future. Raised by her ill grandmother who had little more than Social Security disability income to support her, Kierra was diagnosed with Crohn's disease at age 12. Kierra was in and out of hospitals after multiple misdiagnoses, and missed many days of school as her weight dwindled. She kept her fighting spirit as she not only kept up with school work, but excelled in her classes despite painful treatments and monthly intravenous medication. Through it all, Kierra refused to let anything stop her. She studied and worked hard to excel in school and graduate from Jack Yates High School as valedictorian of her class. Lee also received more than $80,000 in scholarships to attend Texas A&M University in the fall. Kierra remembers the turning point in her life, crediting the Houston Housing Authority with giving her the opportunity and confidence she needed to go out and fight for her future. In addition to providing a safe environment for her to grow up in, officials from the Houston Housing Authority offered her a volunteer opportunity that she says changed her life forever. "I worked with the elderly in the Houston Housing Authority community. They gave me responsibility, and I saw that I could do it," Kierra said. "By giving me a chance, they gave me confidence. They taught me that although I might have a disability, I could get a real job and not stay in housing the rest of my life. The Houston Housing Authority shaped me." Kierra's attitude and determination has molded her into the successful, driven young woman she is today.