Libby's Friends: Turning Tragedy into Triumph

Imagine this. You’re flocking with your friends to the mall a few weeks before Homecoming, checking out the cute outfits and bubbling with anticipation for the big night. But something happens—perhaps an accident that no one saw coming—and instead of Homecoming, you end up hospitalized and wheelchair-bound, while your parents fret over an inexhaustible fountain of medical bills, wondering if you could still go to school. Your life is changed forever.

Libby Hagan’s life took an unexpected turn from the very beginning. A mere 12 days after her birth, she suffered a life-altering overdose of insulin, an astonishing 100 times more than the required amount. Her journey to recovery was arduous, filled with countless medical procedures, and riddled with uncertainty that no family should ever have to endure.

As Libby fought valiantly to regain her health, her family grappled with the financial burden of medical treatment and the countless pieces of specialized equipment needed to support their daughter. Every step in her recovery was marked by hope, and the Hagan family was determined to pay their blessings forward.

In 2020, they founded "Libby's Friends," a beacon of hope for families navigating the challenges of caring for children with special needs in Alabama. Libby's Friends became a pillar of support, offering not only financial assistance but also a network of individuals who understood the unique challenges these families faced. Through their tireless efforts, the Hagans transformed their own journey into a lifeline for others.

So, how can you help?

Our Student Government Association (SGA) has organized a series of events to support Libby's Friends and families like hers:

1. Homecoming Kings: Our Homecoming Kings have generously started fundraisers to Libby's Friends. Some of them involve cookies and even Louis Vuitton bags! Show your support for your grade here and check out the SGA Instagram for more information.

2. Club Fundraisers: If you’re in a club, consider donating! Try to think of creative fundraisers or activities that help Libby’s Friends and promote your club. If you need resources to kickstart your ideas, the SGA can help provide with grants. Clubs will be awarded prizes such as doughnuts and pizza!

3. Donating Candy: If you’re short on cash, don’t worry! Make Halloween accessible to everyone by donating candy to Libby’s Friends! Drop off your bags in the library and you’ll enter a raffle for some sweet prizes. This ends on Friday on October 13th!

4. Outside of School: Many Vestavia businesses also sponsor Libby’s Friends. See Libby’s Friends Instagram for more information.

With your support, we can turn Libby's story into a story of triumph, resilience, and unwavering hope.