I would like to thank my family for making my achievements possible and for always being there for me when I needed them most.  Over the past few years, many people have asked me about my ability to keep working towards my goals by never ever giving up.  The answer lies within my family.  By providing me with a strong Christian upbringing, my parents have always set a great example for me to follow.  On April 24, 2010 a deadly tornado ravaged four Mississippi counties, claiming 10 lives and damaged over 700 homes.  Many families lost their entire home and life possessions.  Among those affected are my parents, Billy and Gwen Thomas (retirement age), who had diligently worked hard and saved up enough money to build their dream home, only to have it all blown away less than three years later in a matter of seconds.  The strength and faith that they have displayed since this day has been an inspiration and demonstrates the strength and willpower that I hope to someday achieve.