HCTC student flourishes after enrolling

When Sharon Morris fist enrolled at HCTC, she had trouble holding a pencil because Parkinson disease but now she said she is in much better shape physically, emotionally, and mentally. She attributes all of this to exercise and being enrolled in the Kentucky School of Bluegrass and Traditional Music (KSBTM).

Years ago Sharon had to stop playing music because of the disease. The tremors had a negative effect on her voice. I did research and learned that the beat of music that does something to the brain, she said, explaining how her symptoms have subsided.

I thank God He gave me a second chance. I feel so indebted and blessed. I feel like that age 63, I am so fortunate when others my age are feeling bad, Sharon said. I have a great social network because the students are very accepting. You feel this camaraderie. It makes me so happy.

Sharon has maintained a perfect 4.0 grade point average and has copy right on 40 of the songs she has written. She has many other songs in the works.

Her song writing ability, her musical talent, and her singing voice warranted her ability to be on stage during the Osborne Brothers Festival Aug. 3 in Leslie County. She has performed numerous other times.

Sharon has the utmost praise for faculty at HCTC s music school. She said the work and help of director Dean Osborne, Curtis Burch, JP Mathes, and Chris Mullins has been tremendous.

School Director Osborne noted, Sharon s story is amazing and inspirational to all of us at KSBTM even without making her battle with Parkinson s disease a part of the storyline. Her triumph over what most would consider overwhelming odds and her resolve to succeed make her one of a kind. With her spiritual life and work ethic, Sharon is a walking miracle and a tribute to what God can do.

Sharon recommends anyone with a disability to enroll in school. My music releases endorphins in my brain, she said, adding this advice to anyone, If you are sick, try music. Sharon is such a believer in that philosophy, she plans to volunteer in a music therapy role after she graduates from HCTC in May 2013. To hear her music, visit sharonmorrris.org