Ari Grashin Memorial Award Presented to Andrew Lyon

In 2005, the Paul Robeson Scholar-Athlete Award program announced the creation of the Ari Grashin Memorial Award in honor of a scholar-athlete who led by example, never gave up and continued to reach for his goals. A former three-time award recipient who passed away in 2002, Ari was an inspirational young man who while battling cancer continued his commitment to excellence.

Diagnosed with a brain tumor in 2001, Ari spent months undergoing treatment, yet he continued to maintain a positive attitude. He worked hard and kept in contact with his teachers and Robeson program staff to ensure that he was keeping his grades up and meeting the requirements to receive the award. Following a valiant battle, Ari passed away on September 23, 2002 at the age of 16. Ari left a lasting legacy for many to learn and benefit from. The Ari Grashin Memorial Award is a fitting tribute to a local youth who inspired many with his positive attitude and encouragement.

This year, the Paul Robeson Scholar-Athlete Award program is pleased to present the Ari Grashin Memorial Award to Andrew Lyon. An inspiration to his family and friends, Andrew has lived a life of many challenges. At the age of six, Andrew suffered an unusually severe and life threatening case of osteomyelitis. Due to this illness, he started grade school in a wheelchair with intravenous antibiotics. Despite surgery and learning to walk again, Andrew played many sports and developed significant skills in soccer and baseball.

When he was eight years old, Andrew was diagnosed with Tourette's Syndrome, a neurologic disorder characterized by uncontrollable vocal and motor tics. Most children with the disorder also experience symptoms of attention deficit disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, learning disorders, and depression. The Tourette's worsened through adolescence and he struggled to maintain friendships and good grades amidst constant embarrassment, isolation and harassment.

Andrew faced each challenge head on and was never willing to quit. Maintaining his enthusiasm, he has consistently taken risks and challenged himself in school, sports and social situations. Today Andrew participates in programs that teach advocacy for the disabled, is a goalie for his soccer team, performs in school musicals, volunteers for school projects and fund raisers and was chosen "Junior Male with Most School Spirit." He looks forward to attending college and exploring the many career options that await him.

Much like Ari Grashin was during his lifetime, Andrew Lyon is a go-getter who exhibits character, determination, and a tenacious drive to succeed. The Paul Robeson Scholar-Athlete Award was a motivator to Ari and continues to be a motivator for Andrew. Andrew appreciates the challenge of sports and the commitment it takes to succeed. He also knows the importance of education and balancing success on the playing field and in the classroom.

The Paul Robeson Scholar-Athlete Program is pleased to honor Andrew and his achievements with the Ari Grashin Memorial Award. Congratulations!