“I took the [graduation] pictures with my kids because they helped me through school,” the mom tells media. “They’re graduating too.” Ieshia further delves into how her oldest son took on additional responsibilities so that she could study and excel. “I would sit in my closet and pray and cry because I was overwhelmed and my oldest son, David, would gather his siblings, give them a snack, make them take a bath, gather their school clothes, all to make things easier for me. And I had no knowledge of him doing that until I went to do it!”

PROUD👏🏻OF👏🏻YOU👏🏻

And I don’t even know you….#IeshiaChamps https://t.co/HU2R3gdtLA

— Kimberly Lumpkin (@kimmmmmeh) April 13, 2018

Many on social media were encouraged by Ieshia and her family’s determination. One online viewer even sought advice from the widowed mother of five. “As a mother and a woman who’s interested in law school – I’d love to ask her for her best advice in deciding to pursue and thrive in law school,” the fan wrote. Ieshia can certainly give us all a few pointers about life and determination!

I loved this story! #ieshiachamps is an amazing, strong woman. What a great example to her kids.

— Maggie🚫No Lists!!🚫💙☮•😷🌳 🦋🌊 (@flybry55) April 11, 2018

For now, though, the mom of five just wants to bask in gratitude. “When I look at the pictures, I cry, I smile, and I’m very grateful,” she reveals to CBS News. “I see a woman who at one time knew that the odds were against her. Looking at that picture reminds me of the fact that I didn’t just defy the odds, me and my children destroyed them.”

Photo: Richard Holman Photography