Cody Donelson is growing up. He is 17 years old, on his way into manhood. With a passion for music he is joining the Marine Corps band.

Cody has always been smart. His father, Bob Donelson, says, “When he was three he would carry on conversations with people like he was a rocket scientist. So it’s always been very interesting.”

Cody lives with his father, younger brother and sister. After his mother and father’s recent separation, he feels like it is his responsibility to step up and help the family get on its way. He feels it is his responsibility.

Cody exercises at the YMCA. He is soon finished with high school and is leaving his home. He is anxious about growing up “the adult world has adult problems” he says.