The Day I Will Always Remember by Marcia Scippio
On April 4th, 2006, my son, Devontay, was feeling sick. His dad took him to the emergency room. During the process of signing Devontay in to the hospital, his dad needed to come and pick me up to sign some of the papers. He had to come to Jackson Hospital to pick me up because I had gone there to the clinic. I stopped what I was doing to be with my son but, to my surprise, I got shocking news about my son's blood. His count had gone down to zero. He needed a blood transfusion so he was transferred to Jackson Memorial Hospital. The doctor told us that if he waited one more day then he would be a dead boy. So, they ran all sorts of tests on him to see what was wrong and, to my surprise, he was diagnosed with Becket Lymphoma Cancer. It was like being struck by a bolt of lightning. But the doctor, the nurses, and my family and friends cheered me up. I never gave up hope because I knew that God is in control of everything.
The chemotherapy and the radiation weren't easy for him. I was right there for him every time he was feeling down and weak. I helped him do the things he was unable to do and helped him get what he was unable to get--he was only five years old.
At the hospital they entertained him very well with books, video games and toys. They even had a teacher so he could continue his studies. All of this brought a smile to his little face and made him forget all about his sickness. After five months of chemotherapy, radiation, and the help of doctors, nurses, and volunteers--thank God today he is cancer free. He only goes for follow-up visits now and then.
In conclusion, what I learned from all of this about Devontay miraculously surviving his encounter with Becket Lymphoma Cancer was that he makes me realize how lucky I am to have him with me today. After all, I try to further my education and achieve my goals. I want to complete it for Devontay and for me and my family so I can get a good job and work toward my happiness.