Cancer-free Shaheem Richards returns to VI
Mrs Scharmla Springette-Richards said her son returned on April 20, 2013 fully recovered after receiving several extensive rounds of chemotherapy treatment at the HIMA Hospital in Puerto Rico.
She was by his side for the entire duration of the treatment as they both made the hospital their home since they had no friends or relatives in Puerto Rico.
“It was smooth,” she said of the treatment, “he didn’t have any symptoms [at the end].”
The medical bill for Shaheem’s treatment though, continues to be a cause of major concern as it hovers around the $500,000 mark. A contribution of $40,000 was previously made by the Government of the Virgin Islands towards Shaheem’s care.
The family continues to appeal for assistance in this regard as it was only able to have minimal funds raised through Facebook and other sources. “Some of the family members are trying to hold some fundraising [activities] to raise the money,” Mrs Springette-Richards said.
A group of family members is scheduled to meet soon to discuss several approaches on the way forward and have been considering sending letters to various businesses to assist with funds to reduce the bill.
According to Mrs Springette-Richards, no response has since been forthcoming from the local Red Cross despite efforts made in response to their promise of assistance.
“We’re ok, God has been good to us,” she said about her feelings on their return.
Shaheem’s mother has expressed several concerns about her son's schooling and the possibility that he may have to be retained for the school year after missing the greater part of the first two terms.
Though he expressed similar concerns, Shaheem said, “Well, I’m glad to be home after seven months.”
He felt excited and was eager to get back to school after such a long time off but the issue of having to do over the school year weighs heavily on his mind.
He stated that he lost a significant amount of weight during his treatment but has since regained the majority of this and is looking forward to what his future holds.
The now recovered Shaheem said, “I feel blessed…,” when asked about having his mother at his side throughout the ordeal.
He thanked his relatives, members of his church and all others who prayed for him. Scharmla also thanked her husband for the support he gave during his son's treatment.
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