“The biggest influence in my life would have to be my mom. She’s very hardworking and gets things done for herself and others. My mom beat [breast] cancer. It showed me how strong she is and how she can push through [hard times]. [I remember] I had a lot going on in the eighth-grade year, and she helped me push through that and be the person I am now. [Without her] I wouldn’t be doing as well as I am now because she helped me be a better person.” — Alex Hurley, 9