With a message of hope and encouragement for youngsters with diabetes, Miss America 1999 Nicole Johnson paid a visit on Monday to pupils at Carpenter Elementary School in Park Ridge.
Recalling how she was diagnosed with diabetes in college and was once told that diabetes would prevent her from becoming Miss America, Johnson urged the youngsters to “never let anybody tell you that your diabetes is going to stop you.”
As 11 pupils with diabetes in 1st through 5th grade hung on every word, Johnson made them promise to never give up their goals and do the four things that ensure they can control their diabetes: test their blood sugar daily, eat the right foods, take their medication and exercise.
“It’s hard, but we can do it,” Johnson said. “That’s the really cool thing, that we can be in control of this thing.”
Johnson, 24, was Miss Virginia in September when she was selected Miss America 1999. She said she planned to spotlight diabetes on her national tour.
Johnson was greeted with several student-made welcome signs lining the walkway to the school’s front door. She was accompanied on her two-hour trip around the school by state Sen. David Sullivan (R-Park Ridge), state Rep. Rosemary Mulligan (R-Des Plaines) and Park Ridge Mayor Ron Wietecha, who read a proclamation declaring a Miss American Day in the city.
While inspiring youngsters with diabetes, Johnson also stressed for all students the importance of reading and education.
Her message on reading was tied to the birthday of Dr. Seuss being celebrated this week. Johnson, along with 3rd-grade pupil Colin Neumann, read Dr. Seuss’ “Green Eggs and Ham” to a class of 1st-grade pupils.
Johnson said reading helped her prepare for challenges later in life, including the Miss America competition, and told the youngsters that the way to prepare themselves for adulthood and to achieve their goals “is by reading lots and lots of books,” and continuing their education.
As an added treat, Johnson also brought her Miss America crown for the youngsters to hold, pass around and even try on.
