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The Conway School of Nursing - @catholicuniversity
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first 6 weeks ❤️❤️❤️
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She gone…🥺😢
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For about 30 seconds today, I let myself take a little credit.

Not all of it, because no one raises a child alone.

Mia’s mom and I have spent most of her life co-parenting. But she’s been loved, supported, challenged, encouraged, and inspired by so many people. She’s had the world’s greatest bonus mom in @juliamaggiola, an incredible family, amazing teachers, coaches, mentors, and friends who have all helped shape the remarkable young woman she has become.

But there have been plenty of times over the years when I wondered if I was doing enough.

Then today happened.

Once Mia ran into my arms, I don’t think I’ve ever felt prouder to be her dad than I did in that instant. A moment where I realized just how lucky I am.

Because somehow, against all odds, I got to help raise the most spectacular human being.

I found myself reflecting on my own childhood and all the things I wished for growing up. More than anything, I’ve wanted my children to have opportunities I never had, to feel supported in ways I didn’t always feel supported, and to never have to wonder whether they were loved beyond measure.

It was also cool when the Head of School recognized first-generation college-bound students in the graduating class. That’s a distinction that I lived. I know the sacrifices, uncertainty, and determination that often come with being the first.

Today, I found myself just as proud knowing that Mia doesn’t carry that distinction. Because somewhere along the way, the dream became bigger than me. The barriers that existed for one generation became opportunities for the next. That’s the whole point, isn’t it?

And now here she is.

A graduate.

A leader.

A kind, compassionate, brilliant, funny, talented, hardworking young woman who is ready to take on the world.

Congrats Class of 2026! The centennial class of @gcdstigers!

@mia_secko_thompson, you are my greatest joy and one of my proudest accomplishments. I cannot wait to see what the world has in store for you next. I know you’re going to do unbelievable things.

This world isn’t going to know what hit it.

I love you 3000. ❤️

(And yes, that last one is kindergarten Mia looking up at 12th grade Mia! 🥹)
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