![](https://www.cpr.org/cdn-cgi/image/width=3840,quality=75,format=auto/https://wp-cpr.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2023/01/Clayton-Adams-e1673476388561.jpg)
After a lifetime of being bullied, a young man is given a chance for immediate acceptance– even renown– but only if he’s willing to do the unthinkable. "The Mask" is a short story inspired by the life experiences of its author, Clayton Adams, of Aurora, whose own life ended much too soon. His parents, Spike Adams and Jamie Shimeall, recalled their son's life and his legacy.