After surviving a massive stroke and a surprise cancer diagnosis—all during the isolating depths of the pandemic—Kelly MacBlane shares her remarkable story of recovery, resilience, and rediscovering joy in the smallest human moments. Royalty Free Intro Music: “See What I Mean” by Beat Market. Kelly MacBlane has spent the past 20 years inspiring students as a history and theater teacher and directing the musicals at Lake Forest High School. In 2017, her direction of Urinetown earned her and co-director John Wanninger a nomination for Best Director at the Illinois High School Musical Theatre Awards. Kelly spends her free time cheering on her three sons at track meets, band concerts, baseball games, and theater productions, while occasionally finding time to review professional theater for Chicago on Stage. As a stroke survivor, Kelly embraces each day with joy, proving that adversity can fuel a deep appreciation for life. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx

When Lainey Laughton was diagnosed with scoliosis at just three years old, everything changed—braces, surgeries, setbacks, and resilience became her new normal. In her powerful TEDxLFHS talk, Lainey shares how a winding medical journey shaped her outlook on control, strength, and support—and why no one facing challenges should have to feel alone. Royalty Free Intro Music: “See What I Mean” by Beat Market. Lainey is a sophomore and is thrilled to be a first-time speaker for TEDxLFHS 2025! Outside of schoolwork, she plays on the varsity tennis team, dances, and plays the cello in the LFHS orchestra. She also participates in clubs like Math Team and Women in STEM. In her free time, she enjoys crocheting and other crafts. She is also passionate about sharing her story with scoliosis (sideways curvature of the spine). She believes that the lessons she has learned through this experience can help anyone going through unique adversity, and that her story can help others with scoliosis feel less alone in their own journeys. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx