
Drake’s catchy phrase “blessings on blessings on blessings” is especially appropriate on this particular day. Today, we celebrate the remission of four-year-old Leah Still and her long battle with stage 4 neuroblastoma, a rare pediatric cancer. Fist bumps and smiles are heavy in rotation. Her father, Devon Still from the Cincinnati Bengals, is rejoicing for the recovery of his beautiful daughter, who was diagnosed nearly a year ago.
He took to Fox & Friends to confess that he learned more about true strength from the time spent with his daughter than he has in his football career. “Being tough is not on the football field,” he said. “It’s not not the weight room, but [it is] watching my daughter fight for her life for nine months with a smile on her face. That taught me a lot about the perspective on life.”
Words from Devon Still on his Instagram also got the tears going.
With a 50/50 chance to live, Leah has showed us more about life in the past months than many of us feel in years. It first began with a viral video of Devon and his daughter fist-bumping as they took the routine commute to the hospital for treatment. A vibrant and adorable Leah is shown giving life to the camera, even amongst the conditions. With the full support and love from Devon’s family, friends, and fellow Bengals, he was able to stand by his daughter’s side every step of the way. The compassion of Coach Lewis allowed Devon to work close to home and maintain an income that provided for the (jaw-dropping) medical bills that piled for Leah’s treatments. Devon’s devoted teammates helped to raise $1.3 million dollars by auctioning off his journey, with all funds going towards the children’s hospital where Leah was receiving treatment.
The love and positivity all around Leah and her father have come a long way. Now every time you fist-bump, remember the hard fight that lies behind it.
Photo Credit: Instagram