I met Amanda Blue in September of 2014 and we instantly connected. We both attended West Forsyth High School in Cumming, Georgia. Amanda was a bit different from our other peers; she was diagnosed with Down Syndrome. I had the honor to teach Amanda and soon became her aide. Despite her disability limiting her mentally and verbally, we understood each other. She helped me learn a small amount of sign language, so we could communicate better, while I helped her learn math and science. Although I was supposed to be teaching her, often times she was teaching me valuable life lessons. She taught me patience and kindness. Most importantly, she taught me not to limit someone by their disability. Amanda exceeded all the limitations her diagnosis put on her. Many students with Down Syndrome don’t have the ability to retain large amounts of information. Since math and science require a large amount of memorization, Amanda had a tough time with these subjects. Although nobody expected her to do well in the courses, she received an A in both. She was able to prove to her teachers and peers that her disability did not define or limit her. She inspired me to continue my education at the University of Georgia as a special education major. Amanda and I still keep in touch, and I go back home often to visit her. In the future, I hope to be able to teach others with disabilities and watch them defy their limitations.