SALADO, Texas — There are lots of smiles in Salado Independent School District as the Eagles' biggest cheerleader is back home after spending around five months in the hospital. The now 17-year-old had a grand welcome home thrown for her, tied in with a birthday celebration on Feb. 15.
Salado ISD students and staff, along with community members, had a drive-by parade for Reagan Williams. Hundreds of people lined up outside the three district campuses to gift her presents, sing happy birthday to her and just see their friend they hadn't seen in months. Reagan rode in style, escorted by a police officer and with the support of Salado ISD Superintendent Dr. Michael Novotny.
"Loved, supported," Jennifer Williams described about the parade for her daughter. "Just brought back memories of all the ones that were there throughout this whole journey."
Reagan Williams has been back home for around three weeks after spending months in hospital. In August 2023, the teen started one of the hardest medical battles of her life yet. Reagan has a congenital heart condition and DiGeorge Syndrome, a chromosomal syndrome that can cause heart problems, lowered immunity and other conditions -- which have caused serious health problems.
Reagan has proven to be a fighter. She became healthy enough to go home, but she still has to work on getting better and stronger. Jennifer Williams credits the support from the community, but more importantly, their faith.
"Our faith has kept us going," Jennifer Williams said. "I hope that if you are having any kind of hard times, realize that if we can make it through this, then you can do the same. You just have to take one step in front of the other and ask God to be there. He has been here and he has healed her and we are so thankful that we are where we are today."
Reagan is getting situated with a nurse and therapy at home. She will have to go in for checkups and scans every now and then, too. She currently has a trach, which she isn't too fond of, however, she's happy to be out of the hospital where there are lots of machines beeping and "babies crying."
On her birthday, Reagan was well enough to enjoy the parade and was happy to see her friends, and most importantly, the Salado Eagle mascot.
"I was really happy to see her, made me sort of emotional," said Caitlyn Kasper, a senior at Salado High. "I miss seeing her face every day, especially on the sideline with us at JV games. She's definitely our number one supporter in the stands and so it's really heartwarming to cheer her on through her battles and stuff and we are all so proud to see her all better."
It's moments like the parade for Reagan that make her mom emotional.
"I'm not one to take help easily and so through this I've learned to lighten up and let people help," Jennifer said. "It's been great to see all those faces today that have helped."
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