Gideon of the Bible sought after signs and was known as a destroyer of obstacles. So for Madison to name her son Gideon may have been a prophetic choice. As a smart, high school student with big plans to attend MIT after graduation, Madison found herself pregnant during her junior year.
“I thought my life was over,” said Madison.
After informing her school nurse of the pregnancy, she was enrolled in the Best Start program. This program offered support and counseling during her pregnancy. It also kept her updated on her courses. During her senior year, Madison had advanced – completing classes ahead of schedule – and was able to shift to a flex schedule where she could leave school early. Her mom kept her son while she was at school.
The Best Start program also introduced her to educational opportunities through South Piedmont Community College. With the support of her family, she decided to become a full-time student majoring in Business. Receiving the Union County Women’s Coalition Scholarship allowed Madison to focus on school and Gideon.
After graduation in May, Madison hopes to start her own video production business, something she’s been passionate about since high school. She finds setting her own work schedule appealing. She wouldn’t have imagined this life back in high school when she found out she was pregnant, but Gideon seemed to destroy all obstacles and helped her seek a new life.
Written by Misty McMillan