Jenna, a 17-year-old student at Southeast High School, is known for her sense of humor and kind heart. Jenna has a natural ability to make people smile and feel included. “I have a very funny personality. I love making people laugh and smile. But at the same time, I'm very kind and caring, always looking out for everyone and making sure they feel included,” Jenna shares.
Her biggest inspiration? Her stepmom, or as Jenna affectionately calls her, “Mom”. When her dad married Jackie they created a big blended family, which now includes four sisters and her brother. “I call my stepmom ‘Mom’ because that’s who she’s been to me for the past nine years”, Jenna shares. Her stepmom has always been her guiding light and role model. “My mom and I have a really awesome relationship. She’s the person I go to when I need to talk to someone. Sometimes, we just hang out in her room, reading books or scrolling on our phones,” Jenna adds. “Two important lessons she has taught me are to be myself and not let anyone bring me down.” Jenna also adds, “She’s very kind and caring and always there when I need her the most. I’ve always looked up to her.”
The Power of Friendship and Community
Being on the Teen Team has been a rewarding experience for Jenna. “I wanted to get better at speaking up for myself and others. I want to be the kind of girl I needed at a difficult time in my life,” she says. And she has! Jenna has gone from such a shy and quiet girl to one who is always laughing, dancing, and making others laugh at every shoot. She has made many new friends, and she is definitely finding her voice.
Friendship is a core part of Jenna’s life. Her best friend, Destiny, has been by her side since they met at a softball game. “She is funny, sweet, and very easy to get along with. I can tell her anything without her judging me,” Jenna shares. Their bond has been a source of strength, especially during Jenna's tougher moments, offering her a space to be herself without fear of judgment.
From Softball to Modeling: Jenna’s Passions on and off the Field
Jenna has been playing softball since her freshman year, primarily covering left field but occasionally stepping into right field. Her favorite softball memory? “When we were at Jackson Milton for a game, and halfway through, it started lightning and pouring down rain. We all huddled in the dugout, playing music and dancing, but eventually had to leave because the rain never stopped.” Softball has been more than just a sport for Jenna; it's been a way to bond with teammates and create lasting memories.
Beyond sports, Jenna is an enthusiastic member of FFA, where her love for animals truly shines. She’s been part of FFA since freshman year, and her favorite memory is bringing her animals to school for younger kids to see. Jenna takes great pride in caring for her many animals: goats named Luna, Violet, PeeWee, Penelope, Petunia, Zoey, Moo, and Cow, her hedgehog Stella, her lionhead rabbit Willow and cat Trixie. Her passion for animals reflects her nurturing nature and dedication to responsibilities.
Jenna is also involved in student council, where she’s been a member since freshman year. Her involvement in student council has allowed her to develop leadership skills and contribute positively to her school community.
Our favorite thing about Jenna is watching her passion for modeling grow. She effortlessly channels the beauty she feels within, allowing it to shine outward.
Finding Strength After Loss: Jenna’s Story of Love, Resilience, and Healing
Jenna’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges. Her birth mother passed away when Jenna was just seven years old. “She was a great mom; she just made a few bad choices,” Jenna reflects.
Grief remains a part of Jenna’s story, especially when she thinks about her birth mom. “I’m constantly thinking about what my birth mom is thinking while she looks down on me. I just want her to be proud,” she says. Coping with grief brought its own set of challenges. “While dealing with my grief, I developed some mental health issues like separation anxiety, seasonal depression, anxiety, and trust issues. I was really sad throughout the whole process of grieving to the point where I would not leave my stepmom's side, or I would just hide in my room for hours,” Jenna shares.
Counseling played a vital role in Jenna's healing journey. “I went into counseling after my mom passed and was in counseling for two years.” Jenna shared that when she stopped going to counseling, she leaned on her stepmom for support. “I'm the kind of person who doesn't really like to open up about things, so I would bottle up all my feelings until I couldn't hold them in anymore, and the only person I would talk to was my stepmom,” she explains.
Healing Through Memories: Jenna’s Advice for Teens Coping With Grief
Now, when Jenna feels sad, she looks back at the good memories she shared with her birth mom, finding comfort in those moments.
Jenna’s advice to anyone grieving is heartfelt: “Look back at all the amazing memories you had with that person, lean on someone you trust, and tell them how you feel.”
Honoring the Past: Embracing the Future
Jenna’s future is filled with hope and ambition. She dreams of becoming a travel nurse or doctor, with plans to attend the University of Akron to earn her nursing degree. “In five years from now, I see myself traveling the world as a travel nurse,” she envisions.
Her involvement in Teen Team has also been a cornerstone of her personal growth. “If someone considers joining Teen Team I would tell them that being part of the team is amazing. You will make a lot of new friends, and my favorite part is how supportive everyone is,” Jenna says.
Jenna’s journey is a testament to resilience, love, and the power of community. Through her involvement with Capture Life Photography’s Teen Team, FFA, student council, and softball, Jenna continues to build confidence, spread kindness, and inspire those around her. Her story is one of strength, compassion, and the unwavering belief that even in the face of loss, there is always hope for a brighter future.
Jenna, your mom is watching over you with so much love and pride. She sees the kindness in your heart and the strength in your spirit. I have no doubt that she is incredibly proud of the strong, kind, and resilient young woman you’ve become. - Davinda
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For those navigating grief or seeking support, these resources can offer guidance and comfort:
National Alliance for Children’s Grief
Mental Health and Recovery and Recovery Board of Portage County
Beautifully written. What an amazng young woman!