Morning Star Teen Earns Distinguished Service Award

Orlando Catholic Schools have a long tradition of teaching our students to use their gifts and talents in service to others. While they generously live out these teachings throughout the year, it is not often that they are recognized at the national level for their efforts. Raquel, a high school student at Morning Star Catholic School, is one of the exceptions. Morning Star Catholic serves students with exceptional needs. 

On Feb. 9, Raquel was named a Distinguished Finalist in the Prudential Financial 2021 class of Spirit of Community Awards State Honorees. Conducted annually by Prudential in partnership with the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP), the award honors students in grades 5-12 for making meaningful contributions to their communities through volunteer service. She was among 102 teens nationwide and 10 from the state of Florida to receive the distinguished honor.

Raquel was recognized for work creating customized, inspirational jewelry for children undergoing invasive medical treatments or other challenges. However, what makes her story unique is the fact that her volunteer work began while she faced one of the greatest challenges in her young life.  

Raquel’s journey began a few years ago, when at the age of 12, she and her parents heard the words no one ever wants to hear – she had cancer. Her particular type of cancer would require two and a half years of chemotherapy. 

During her 886-day chemo treatment, Raquel lost a third of her body weight and became pale and gaunt. As her hair fell out from the chemo, she struggled to see any beauty in the face she saw in the mirror. However, when Raquel learned that she was not alone and that a lot of children lose their hair during cancer and other medical treatments, she knew she wanted to make a difference.  

Raquel started making custom inspirational jewelry with messages such as “Be-YOU-tiful” or “Find Joy in the Journey.”  With each piece of jewelry, she includes a personal note reminding the recipient that he or she is courageous, beautiful and amazing.  

She donated her creations to local nonprofits, including Arnold Palmer Hospital, BaseCamp Children’s Cancer Foundation, Make-a-Wish, Morning Star Catholic School, and more. To date, she has donated more than $10,000 worth of jewelry.

Raquel’s compassion is no surprise to Dr. Alicia Abbey, her school principal. 

“Raquel’s commitment to philanthropy and her generous spirit makes her an excellent role model and an inspiration to others,” Abbey said. “She has raised thousands of dollars for special needs organizations and donates her jewelry to charitable organizations throughout Central Florida, such as Special Olympics, Best Buddies, and Down Syndrome organizations. Her positive attitude and her desire to make a difference is a wonderful testament to her character.” 

In addition to her charitable work and starting an online business, RaquelBeautiful.com, Raquel gives presentations for those with Down syndrome and others in the community to share the importance of diversity and inclusion and acceptance in our world.  

“I’m only one person, but I do what I can,” Raquel said. “Each person has so much beauty in them, and I hope that with my message I can make everyone see that.”