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Just an Incredible Story of One Local Teen's Milestone

It is not every day a high school graduation makes the news, but this is a unique graduate.

A local teenager is celebrating the milestone because it was always possible he might never live long enough to get his diploma.

17-year-old Matthew has muscular dystrophy, a terminal illness. But he never let it stop him.

Thanks to the Northwoods staff, Matthew went to school in the comfort of his room, so that his nursing and respiratory needs were always met. The 17-year-old has been living with the disease ever since birth, but it never slowed him down or kept him from getting his education.

Matthew received his diploma last week following his completion of the 12th grade, thanks to the center and his tutor.

"Matthew worked with Andy, Monday through Friday...he got here about four o'clock and left here about 7 o'clock everyday, and they worked on all subjects," says Sara Levin, his pediatric social worker.

Matthew is the first high school graduate patient. Nurses say Matthew's learning will continue. He still meets with his tutor on a daily basis.