LHS graduate, Rylan Castile-Henderson impacts her community with mental health awareness.

1.3 min read| Published On: June 29th, 2023|

By Cynthia McFarland

LHS graduate, Rylan Castile-Henderson impacts her community with mental health awareness.

1.3 min read| Published On: June 29th, 2023|

RYLAN CASTILE-HENDERSON

My greatest accomplishment: Being a finalist for 2023 Boys & Girls Clubs Youth of the Year sponsored by Kiwanis Club of Orlando Foundation.  

What this experience meant to me: I’m using that as my platform to bring awareness to mental health and what’s going on with my generation. I think COVID-19 and all that time out of school, being away from friends, and not being very social has really impacted my generation. 

I want people to know that: Everyone is important and has a purpose. If you haven’t found it yet, you will figure it out!

My message to the world: Do what makes you happy and live your life to the fullest. Don’t let anyone hold you back. Always advocate for yourself.

My greatest quality: I’m very compassionate and understanding of others.

I’m proud of: Putting in over 800 community service hours in Leesburg and surrounding areas. I was also recognized as one of six LHS seniors who exemplify service and leadership within the school and community and received the 2023 LHS Distinguished Senior award. 

Words I live by: Philippians 4:13 – “Worry about nothing; pray about everything.”

Two people I admire: My mom. She’s been my biggest supporter and always goes above and beyond for my success. She’s the reason I’m where I am today with my activities and academic achievement. I credit her for pushing me and keeping me straight. And Coach Shidira LeRae. She’s the assistant cheer coach at Leesburg High School, and for the past three years, she’s been more like a sister to me.

I’ve also been influenced by: My Godmother Veronica. She passed away when I was 8, and after her death, I used my pain as motivation to become more involved in school, join different clubs and become an honor roll student.  

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About the Author: Cynthia McFarland

"I fell in love with words early on and knew from fourth grade that I wanted to be a writer,” says Cynthia McFarland. A full-time freelancer since 1993 and the author of nine non-fiction books, her writing has earned regional and national awards. Cynthia lives on a small farm north of Ocala; her kids have fur and four legs

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