Inspiring Journey: 50-Year-Old Woman Triumphs Over Chronic Disease to Graduate with Honors

In a remarkable testament to resilience, Ammies Stewart, a 50-year-old mother of three and elementary school teacher at Jackson Public Schools, has defied the challenges of battling Lupus to graduate from Jackson State University with a remarkable 97% grade point.

Ammies, who was diagnosed with Lupus in May 2022, successfully balanced her roles as a teacher, mother, and student, graduating from Jackson State University’s Mississippi Teacher Residency (MTR) Program with a 3.90 grade point average. Despite facing chronic health challenges, Ammie's determination and unwavering faith propelled her through academic hurdles.

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Expressing her excitement about the graduation, Ammies shared, "I’m stepping for my children. I’m stepping for my students. I’m stepping for the mothers and fathers who wanted to step but couldn’t step." She highlighted her reliance on faith, trusting in God's plan throughout her academic journey.

Ammie embarked on her college journey in 1997 but paused her academics to care for her children. She later resumed and graduated from Tougaloo College, Mississippi, with two associate’s degrees in early childhood and childhood development. Despite facing lupus flare-ups, characterized by extreme fatigue and chronic pain, she persevered and earned a bachelor’s degree in childhood development.

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Reflecting on her journey, Ammie emphasized that her battle with Lupus was intended to inspire others. "I know when to throw in the towel, but sometimes it’s not about throwing in that towel. Take that towel and wipe these tears with it because I cry and all that kind of stuff sometimes, but with that being said, I can say I did it."

Ammie credited her family, friends, church members, coworkers, and neighbors for providing a stable support system during her academic journey. Affirmations, moments of reflection, and drawing strength from the scripture in Romans 8:37 played pivotal roles in her resilience.

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This remarkable achievement not only underscores Ammies Stewart's personal triumph but serves as an inspiration for others facing adversity, proving that with determination and a strong support system, one can overcome even the most formidable challenges.