In early spring, senior Hannah Conley was on her way to a concert when a motorcycle struck her in a highway accident. A couple weeks later, she was again involved in another minor car accident.

After both incidents, she dismissed the neck pain and headaches, but it wasn’t until the beginning of summer that Conley knew something was seriously wrong. 

As sideline cheerleading practices resumed, she persevered through long practices despite experiencing severe fatigue, shortness of breath, and persistent lightheadedness. 

After visiting many specialists, Conley was diagnosed in August with a nervous system disorder called Dysautonomia. This condition interferes with a person’s autonomic nervous system, such as heart rate, blood pressure, breathing, and sweating. 

Since her diagnosis, Conley has adapted new routines and treatments to manage her symptoms. She focuses more on staying hydrated, monitoring her salt intake, and adjusting her medication regimen.

“I drink as much water as I can a day, which is usually around 80 oz. I also take two packets of electrolytes to stay hydrated,” Conley said. “I have to have a healthy intake of sodium throughout the day to maintain a strong blood pressure.” 

However, medication isn’t the only adjustment Hannah has made. A crucial component of cheerleading requires standing and running tumbling, which can trigger feelings of dizziness when flipping upside down. 

As a result, both Conley and her doctors believe it is best for her to stop tumbling for a while. 

Even though Conley has to take these new preventative actions, she remains committed to showing up to practice eager to contribute and make the most of her senior season. 

 Senior Heidi Moebius said she admires her teammate’s work ethic and dedication to the team. 

“Whether it’s in school or in cheer, Hannah shows up. She is an extremely hard worker and a very positive team member,” Moebius said.

Since becoming a Varsity Cheerleader her junior year, Conley has demonstrated her dedication and commitment to the program. Last year during the competition season, Conley competed at Sectionals, helping the team secure 2nd place. 

“Being a top two team at Sectionals was the highest placement in Lake Forest Cheerleading history,” senior Cheerleading Captain Ally Lucania said. “In my stunt group, Hannah is my base, so we couldn’t have done it without her strength.”

Hannah hopes this winter season will be as rewarding and exciting as last year’s, no matter the symptoms and precautions she has to take on. 

“Hannah is the most positive person I know and always puts in 150% into everything she does. She never lets anything stop her,” senior Cheerleading Captain Amelia Kavanagh said.