Sydney Fitzpatrick was born with cerebral palsy and epilepsy. Despite these handicaps she will be competing in the Miss You Can Do It Pageant, a competition for women and girls with special needs. The competition was started by Abbey Curran, the reigning Miss Iowa, who was born with cerebral palsy.

Her mother, Vikki Fitzpatrick, entered her daughter in the pageant to give her the chance to be around other youngsters with disabilities.

Vikki was told when Syndney was born that her disabilities would prevent her from participating in many activities. However, six years later Sydney is enrolled in swimming lessons and plans on learning to ride horses. Sydney also enjoys riding her hand-cycle and drawing with sidewalk chalk.

It's just amazing to see what these young girls with cerebral palsy are able to do when they are determined. It truly is inspiring.