In the halls of Wenatchee High School, amidst the flurry of academic pursuits and extracurricular activities, there exists a story of resilience, perseverance and triumph against all odds. Aiden Rosen, a graduating senior, embodies adversity, leaving an indelible mark on those who met him.
Born without functioning kidneys, Aiden’s early years were defined by a relentless cycle of medical interventions and hospitalizations.
“He went through his entire childhood with constant, painful doctor appointments, dialysis, hospitalizations and medical uncertainty. There were large stretches of time when it was a life or death situation for Aiden, and he missed a lot of school as a result,” said Katie Johnson.
However, Johnson shares that despite all of the medical problems Aiden had, he still maintained a strong and optimistic attitude.
“I don’t think there are many people out there who could do what Aiden has done while maintaining such a strong and optimistic attitude,” Johnson said. Aiden’s journey at Wenatchee High School began when he relocated from Tacoma in his sophomore year.
“I had a really good time and met a whole bunch of people I was honestly surprised to meet in my life,” Aiden said. “I started coming to Wenatchee High School when I was a sophomore, moving here from Tacoma. After I met a whole bunch of great people that helped me along the way.”
Reflecting on his high school journey, Aiden’s advice to incoming freshmen is to start working on assignments as soon as they’re assigned and try to get them done early. He acknowledges his own regrets for not doing any work during his freshman and sophomore years.
However, he is grateful for the support that he has received during high school. “You meet a lot of people here, most of your friends and adults that really help you get through practically anything,” Aiden said.
Aiden’s biggest accomplishment is graduating on time despite the challenges he has faced.
“I’m surprised I’m graduating on time. My freshman and sophomore years, I didn’t do much work. But junior and senior years, I got my act together and worked hard to graduate,” Aiden said.
Johnson notes that when Aiden was put in her class he was on a credit-deficient and it wasn’t certain if he’d even graduate on time.
“When I first met Aiden, he was credit-deficient and wasn’t on track to graduate in June 2024, but he has completely turned that around with his hard work, communication skills and dedication to his own success,” Johnson said.
Reflecting on his academic progress, Johnson shares that Aiden has set himself on the path to success.
“Aiden has become less impulsive and more future-oriented. He has learned to channel his energy into plans for the adult world, and he is able to break his goals down into do-able action steps. Super impressive for a high school student,” Johnson said.
Aiden’s friend, Michael Tooker, recalls memories of their time together that capture Aiden’s rambunctious spirit.
“What we would do is go on rides a lot and blast music. He is very rambunctious. I would say that sums him up. Pretty wild,” Michael said.
Looking beyond high school, Aiden envisions a future in Spokane, attending a trade school for construction. Aiden’s dream is to be able to provide for his family and own his own land someday.
“I am gonna graduate and then move to Spokane and go to the trade school in Spokane. I am gonna go there for construction,” Aiden said.
Aiden’s high school experience exemplifies resilience and determination, despite significant obstacles, and a childhood plagued by frequent medical interventions and hospitalizations. His positive outlook and determined spirit propelled him through his academic journey at Wenatchee High School. Aiden quickly integrated himself into the school community upon his arrival in his sophomore year, forging meaningful connections with peers and educators. Despite initial struggles, he maintained a strong work ethic and ultimately overcame academic challenges to graduate on time. Beyond academics, Aiden’s supportive demeanor endeared him to his peers, making a lasting impact on the school community.