I was watching the news magazine show, 20/20, over the weekend and one story literally brought tears to my eyes. It was about homeless beauty queen, Blair Griffith. I initially thought, “here’s another pageant girl looking to score sympathy votes.” Having competed in pageants both in the USA and my native country, Jamaica, I’ve come across so many different girls who would do everything in their power to win that crown.
After watching the interview, my perspective completely changed. Through no fault of her own, Blair and her mom were evicted from their home in Colorado. While they haven’t been living on the streets, they’ve also had no real place to call their own.
What truly brought me to tears was learning that Blair’s dad—her biggest supporter in pageants—passed away from cancer. On top of that, her mom suffered a heart attack. Both of these tragedies brought overwhelming medical bills, which eventually led to their financial struggles. When they were evicted, Blair chose not to share what she was going through. The truth only came out when someone asked to interview her at her home.
The silver lining? Blair has since received help from sponsors, and now she’s preparing to compete for the Miss USA crown—on Father’s Day, no less. While her dad won’t be there in person to cheer her on, I have no doubt he’ll be with her in spirit.
Such a beautiful story. FYI: My hubby is Jamaican too.
These stories are becoming more commonplace every day. I wish the very best for this young lady.
Wow! What a story. I’m sure she will make the most of her experiences and become a great and successful person in this life.
Thanks for stopping by my blog! You have the most adorable family.
Your hubby is Jamaican too?! Tell him I said “Wah a gwaan?”lol.
I wish Miss Colorado would have made top 10:( You all are right though, I think she will become successful at whatever she does. I wish her the best. Such a nice story!
wow! this is a sad story with a bittersweet ending. i’m sure she will make her dad proud!
She’s didn’t end up placing in the pageant, but I’m sure she made her dad proud.