By allowing ads to appear on this site, you support the local businesses who, in turn, support great journalism.
Overcoming the odds: Teen excels in school despite illness
1225OVERCOMERpizano4
Paraprofessional Cindy Campbell helps Juan Pizano get his lunch tray in the cafeteria at South Hall Middle School. Campbell has been with Juan for years and will continue to work with him through his high school years.
Juan Pizano’s father first noticed a change when his son was 4. “He started walking on his tiptoes,” Guillermo Pizano said. “We asked the pediatrician, ‘Why is he walking like that?’” Juan was diagnosed with muscular dystrophy, a disease that weakens the muscles and eventually leads to limited movement.