BIDDEFORD, Maine — Embarking on a career in a field you love is a milestone for most people.
But for folks with physical and developmental disabilities, those opportunities are often out of reach.
A Biddeford woman born with a terminal disease hasn't let any challenges keep her from living out her dream of becoming a classroom teacher.
First-graders in Melissa Jolly's class at Biddeford Primary School are excited to come in from recess each Friday because one of their favorite teachers is waiting.
Gabi Millett, or Miss Millett as she is known to her class, didn't go to school to become a teacher. But with the help of Rebecca Knock, an employment specialist with Maine Medical Center's Department of Vocational Services, she can launch into a lesson, even without the ability to speak.
Gabi's iPad is connected to a smart TV so students can read and hear her words. Today's lesson was about learning how to sign colors in American Sign Language.
The 24-year-old was born with a rare metabolic disorder called propionic acidemia, which caused a stroke. She almost didn't survive.
"That left her unable to speak, and she had cognitive delays, as well as dystonia, which is a form of cerebral palsy," Susan Millett, Gabi's mother, explained.
Gabi also has a feeding tube and uses a walker to get around.
Growing up, she loved being with children. Gabi volunteered at camps and preschools in high school but was determined to get a teaching job.
"She wanted a paying gig. 'I want a career!' She was adamant," Susan added with a smile.
That tenacity paid off.
Biddeford Schools Superintendent Jeremy Ray offered her a job three years ago to teach lessons two days a week at Biddeford middle and primary schools.
"Being at school makes me feel necessary and good. The students do a good job and are always happy to see me," Gabi said.
"She gets so excited, and she brings that into the classroom and it turns contagious," Gabi's dad, Alex, enthused.
Gabi, who never lets on, suffers from pain and nausea most of the time.
With help from her mom, she creates all the lesson plans, takes hours to research ideas, and brings in crafts and gifts for the class.
And these youngsters give back in a big way.
"They color her pictures, they will give her stickers, all kinds of stuff," Knock said enthusiastically.
"She is nice. I learned that she is a great teacher," first-grader Larbi Bukele added.
"I like how she teaches us stuff, and I like learning sign language," first-grader Heidi Shirazi said.
"She is just like them when she is in our classroom. ... And the whole school sees it," Jolly exclaimed.
While Gabi's disease is terminal and her life expectancy is unknown, her family said she is a trailblazer.
Gabi continues to inspire people of all abilities and show potential employers that everyone has something to offer.