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WEST COLUMBIA, (WACH)--Glenforest School has been serving students with learning disabilities for 30 years.

This year Marcy Ballard will join her classmates for their high school graduation on Friday.

Ballard was born 4 months early, diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy and is battling several other disabilities.

Doctors told her family she had very little chances of survival.

"They told me I would be a vegetable," said Mallard.  "But I proved them wrong." 

For the 21-year-old, graduating from high school means much more than a diploma. 

"I've had a lot of issues but I'm persevering and proving to everyone that I can do it." Said Marcy. 

The non-traditional style school offers smaller classrooms, unique learning tools and a comfortable learning environment. 

Mallard will study psychology at Midlands Tech next fall, she says, Glenforest has played a big role in preparing her for the next level. 

"I have seen a young lady sprout her wings, gain great independence and confidence." Said, Chris Winkler, Head of Glenforest.  "We would call it self advocacy and as a young lady she knows what she's capable of."
 
Walking across the stage is a dream come true for Marcy and means much more than receiving a diploma.

For more information on the Glenforest School click here.