Holly Wrobbel is 16 years old, a Sophomore at Highland High School, IL and is really active in school and her community.
Holly was crowned 2016 IL Teen Butterfly Dreams Queen in June. In just a few short months of her reign, Holly has accomplished so much and in doing so, promotes advocacy and acceptance for individuals with Down syndrome.
The following are a few of these recent accomplishments:
- Met Joseph R. Michaelis, Mayor of her hometown Highland, IL
- Made appearances in two parades: one in a horse and carriage for the televised St. Louis Veiled Prophet, and one in a convertible for her town of Highland’s Homecoming
- Threw out first pitch at the Gateway Grizzlies game in front of about 400 people
- Met 2015 Miss America, Betty Cantrell
- Helped open the ceremonies for the Balloons Over Marine, IL event where she handed out prizes and posed for pictures with the winners
- Carried the torch for the Summer Special Olympics through part of Highland, IL
- Flew a 1972 Grumman AA-5 plane
Holly is very involved in Special Olympics and has placed at State and Regional Competitions, receiving a total of 9 gold medals and 1 silver for the Special Olympics Rhythmic Gymnastics Competitions. She also placed gold for Regional Bocce and silver for Regional Bowling. She is also active in her schools Chorus program and the Special Education Programs at Highland High School. This young butterfly is just starting to spread her wings, but as she will become even more involved in her community.
Holly does not have Facebook page, but both of her parents do and they post about her.
Way to go Holly! You are a very special girl that looks like you can accomplish everything and anything you want in life! Keep up the hard work and all the smiles. Enjoy.
I am a friend of your grandparents and a fellow Grantfork gal,
Rhonda M. Brendel
Holly, we are so very proud of you and all of your accomplishments!! You are one special, loving young woman!! You can do anything you set your mind too!! We love you,
Cathy, Chuck, Stephanie and Michael Pabst
Holly, we are SO VERY PROUD of you and all of your accomplishments you have made so far! We knew when you were born you would do great things!! You have the very best mom and dad in the world!! We should know, your mom is our cousin!
You are the most loving, caring, kind individual we have ever known! You can do anything you set your mind too! We LOVE YOU!!
Cathy, Chuck, Stephanie and Michael Pabst
So proud of you Holly! I believe in you and I know you can accomplish anything with perseverance and dedication. Love watching all the things you have accomplished! So honored to have had you as a student of mine. With love and admiration! Patti Franklin, Highland Primary
I am so proud of you Holly! Having you as a student in 6th grade was one of the most rewarding years I ever had in my 35 years of teaching. You taught me to appreciate the little things in life and you’ve proven how the little things can turn into great accomplishments!! Keep up the great job and have fun doing it!! Mrs. Mac
What an amazing story, Holly! Keep it going! I learned so much from working with you in primary school and am grateful for having the opportunity to do a small part in helping you reach your goals. Three years ago, God blessed my husband and I with a son with Down syndrome and we are inspired by your accomplishments. Reach for the stars!
So very proud of you Holly! I have enjoyed getting to know you through Butterfly Dreams!
Great job Holly. I’m Proud of you and all of your accomplishments. My son also has Down Syndrome, you have given me inspiration for his future. You can do and be anything you choose, keep up the Great work and reach for the Stars.
YOU ROCK HOLLY!
Sweet Holly! Congratulations to you! Carli is excited to be a partner with you and we can’t wait to watch you have an exciting year ahead of you as Queen. Much love to you!