As we enter this season of reflection, here are four things that stood out to me on that walk down memory lane.

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Dear John,

Sometimes a Facebook Memory can stop you in your tracks.

I recently saw a post from last fall when I was in my second round of chemotherapy. It brought a rush of emotions, but it also reminded me just how much can change in a year. Today, I'm cancer‑free and celebrating something I never imagined possible: finishing my first marathon.

As we enter this season of reflection, here are four things that stood out to me on that walk down memory lane:

1. Your Support System Matters: During chemotherapy, the people around me brought hope, comfort, laughter, and strength. In 4‑H, we know the power of a caring community. Our youth have mentors, friends, and trusted adults they can count on, and that makes all the difference.

2. Gratitude Changes Us: We don't always tell our people how much they mean to us. This season, I encourage you to say it out loud. Recently, I made a tried-and-true recipe (pictured) from my 4‑H recipe box for the amazing professionals who treated me at the Radiology Clinic, thanking them for their kindness and celebrating remission.

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3. 4-H Skills Are Life Skills: The resilience and perseverance I learned in 4‑H helped me push through chemotherapy, and the dedication and discipline I developed helped me stick to marathon training. I'm grateful our 4‑H'ers are building these skills for life and for their future careers. If you want to see what this looks like through the eyes of a young person, here's a powerful story of resilience from Ivy Prince, a SC 4‑H'er ([link removed] ) .

4. You're More Ready Than You Think: Is there something on the horizon you don't feel prepared for? A goal or dream you've been putting off? I felt that way about training for a marathon. But a friend told me, "You're more ready than you think. Just take the first step."" I bet you’re ready, too.

Whatever race you're running right now, I want you to know how grateful we are for you. Thank you for being part of our support system. Millions of 4‑H'ers are beyond ready because of you.

Happy Thanksgiving! 

Jill Bramble

President & CEO

National 4‑H Council

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Calling all artists, creators, and performers! We'd love to see what YOU do best. Submit your work for a chance to be featured at upcoming National 4‑H events. We're looking for singers, dancers, instrumentalists, as well as visual artists and creators of all kinds. Enter today to showcase your unique talent on this national stage! Applications from students ages 14–19 are accepted from October 1 through December 1.

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Whether you're a teen or an alum, we want to hear from you! Tell us about your 4‑H journey and how the experience made you Beyond Ready for what's next.

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