Being diagnosed with diabetes at age nine and navigating transitions many adults struggle to adjust to, Khai-Lee Mendez refused to let illness define her future.

The 11-year-old Steps Academy student in St Ann’s Bay pushed through hospital stays, strict routines and daily sacrifices to pass for her first choice, Westwood High School, and snag multiple awards at graduation on Wednesday.

“I felt excited and proud of myself. I always ask Mommy to help me study and I studied hard, so I am glad I got my first choice,” Khai-Lee said. “It was a little hard but my teachers and my family helped me.”