Alabama Champion: Teen overcomes difficult steps to succeed on course, in life

Grit and tenacity helped Jackson Griggs overcome the damage an auto immune disease did to his body at the age of just 4 years old. Jackson is now 17 and graduating from Southside High School as valedictorian.

Through many hard treatments and intense physical therapy, Griggs learned to walk again. He is grateful for every step he can take. In fact, that appreciation for movement morphed into him running.

Griggs has won many awards for his time on the cross country team at his high school. Now, he has a scholarship to the University of Alabama at Huntsville for the cross country team there.

About a month ago, he was flown to Washington D.C. to be awarded the Military Child of the Year for his grades and his many successes.

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But better than any of the awards is Jackson Griggs humble heart. He says his goal in life now is to become a doctor, to help children like him. He wants to help them know they should never give up and push past what you think your limits are.

Jackson Griggs is indeed our Alabama Champion.

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