class of 2009 > madeleine almanza

Madeleine Almanza has 2-year-old son, Ezekiel Blume, and is pregnant with a daughter, due in September.

She says of Zeke, "He's very smart, talkative, always happy, has a positive attitude most of the time. He's very sweet and empathetic. Sometimes he surprises me with the things he knows."

Madeleine says she's grown to be a better person since becoming a teen mother. "Since having my son, I've cared more about myself and life. Before, I was headed down the wrong path because I had terrible priorities. Now I realized the importance of being healthy, stable and happy.

"Florence Crittenton made me believe I could be a teen mother and still do something successful with my life," she says. "They've given me so many opportunities and resources that have made my life easier. The Early Learning Center helped ease my mind of stress scattering to find day care. I was also certain he was well treated and happy."

She and her boyfriend want to get their own place to raise their growing family, and Madeleine has been accepted at Metro State, where she plans to pursue an English degree.

Her advice: "Don't sell yourself short. Even if you think you don't have the skills, you're dumb, it's an impossibility... that's just an excuse. I used to think there was no point to even try; then I found my passion, and worked diligently, and now I'm achieving my goals."