What's happening: Ramsey School District is proud to recognize Keira O'Dea, a senior at Ramsey High School, as our Unsung Hero recipient. Keira will be honored at an event at Henry P. Becton Regional High School in March.
Keira’s journey over the past two years has been defined by a level of strength that is remarkable.
In 2023, Keira faced the profound loss of her mother, Denise.
While such a loss is immeasurable, Keira has chosen to keep her mother’s legacy alive by weaving Denise’s signature patience, warmth, and kindness into her own daily life.
Her resilience was tested further in the spring of 2024 when a sudden medical emergency led to the discovery of a two-pound tumor pressing on her heart and lungs. Despite the physical and emotional toll of major surgery and recovery, Keira emerged with a transformed perspective on the preciousness of time.
Rather than letting these hardships deter her, Keira has used them as a compass for her future.
Inspired by the care she received, Keira will attend Fairfield University this fall to study Nursing.
Her goal is simple yet profound: to provide the same life-changing support to others that helped her through her darkest moments.
We are proud to honor Keira for her courage, her perspective, and her unwavering commitment to helping others. She is a testament to the fact that while we cannot always control what happens to us, we can choose to meet it with grace.