Commencement ceremony extra special for one Addison Trail student
On June 8, about 500 Addison Trail students walked across the stage and received their diploma during the school’s 48th annual commencement ceremony.
It was a special day for all of them – but for one student in particular, it was a moment she’ll never forget.
For senior Xena Nelms, just walking across the stage was a dream come true. In April, Nelms started to feel increasing fatigue, and she was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia on May 1. Nelms recently underwent her first round of chemotherapy, but was able to return to school and visit her classmates on June 3. She said she was thrilled to be able to finish her senior year with her friends by attending graduation and prom.
Nelms’s mom, Carrie, said she’s overwhelmed by the support from Addison Trail and the community. She said Addison Trail Principal Adam Cibulka and Athletic Director Matt Thompson visited Nelms at Loyola University Medical Center, where she’s receiving treatment.
Cibulka said Nelms has had a huge impact on Addison Trail during her years at the school. She has been involved with Pay It Forward, an event to help incoming freshmen transition to high school; yearbook; Student Council; National Honor Society; and the Addison Trail-Willowbrook Girls Swim Team.
“Xena epitomizes what it means to be an Addison Trail Blazer,” Cibulka said. “We’re so proud of her courage and tenacity. She is truly an inspiration to all of us.”
Carrie said a fundraiser to help the family and the charities that have supported Nelms will take place on July 18 at American Tap (701 W. Lake St. in Addison). For details, go to https://dupage88.net/site/public/files/?item=1704.
“The support we have received is incredible,” she said. “It certainly makes things easier, and we can’t express in words how thankful we are to everyone.”