This is the story of Violet. In the beginning, Violet was born blind. She lived normally until age two where she had a stroke due to a hemorrhage in her brain. Because of it, she developed a case of hemiplegic cerebral palsy. She would never walk again.

Violet had to go to a blind institution where she excelled in all of her classes. Violet was always bored. She'd rarely get anything challenging. So, after eighth grade, she asked her parents about going to a public school. After many meetings with her counselor, they agreed. Her parents saw her off the first day, hoping she'd do well.

. . .

It's time for graduation. Four years have passed since that first day of high school. The valedictorian comes to the podium. The crowd screams and claps when they see her. As the sound dies down, a sweet voice fills the air.

'As you all know, I'm disabled. So, before I give my speech, I'd like to thank everyone for their warmth and compassion.

My advice to all of you, don't be told you can't do something. Especially go to college. I've heard so many people say to students, who have disabilities and who don't, ÔYou can't go to college.' Why? Because they don't have the money? Because they have a disability? Or because their dream college doesn't have room for them?

In my own opinion, that is so stupid. In my own opinion, anyone seeking higher education so that they can go on and accomplish great things and make something of themselves should be able to receive it! In fact, someone promised us that. Here in California, leaders from forty-eight years ago promised us that Ôthrough the Master Plan for Higher Education to provide a place in college for every student who seeks the opportunity. Why can't that promise be fulfilled? Because it was made forty-eight years ago? A promise is a promise. No matter how old, or how big.

My name is Violet. And I hope you get the same opportunity to go to college as everyone else has.