We’ve been following the sometimes heartbreaking, sometimes exciting but always inspiring story of Devon Still and his daughter Leah closely for almost a year now.
For those who don’t know at four-years-old, Leah was diagnosed with stage-4 neuroblastoma, a rare form of cancer that develops in children.
Though we reported that Leah’s cancer had gone into remission; still, their journey is not over. Most recently, Devon posted an update on Instagram saying that Leah had suffered a complication from the stem cell transplant called VOD.
And though they’re currently experiencing a setback, perhaps they can find a glimmer of encouragement in the fact that ESPN recently announced that both Devon and Leah Still would be honored with the Jimmy V Perserverance Award at this year’s ESPYS.
Executive producer for the show, Maura Mandt, explained why the Stills were receiving the honor.
“This award is a testament to the inspiration Devon and Leah are to all the families who are suffering from similar circumstances. It is our hope that with this award we can send them more strength as they face this latest challenge.”
Connor Schell, senior vice president, ESPN Films and Original Content, continued:
“The perseverance that Devon and Leah have shown throughout this unfortunate process is incredibly moving. Each day that she fights, her father is by her side and their love and strength has captivated all of us in the sports world and beyond.”
The Jimmy V award was named after the late basketball player and coach, Jimmy Valvano. Like, Leah, he too was fighting cancer when he delivered an acceptance speech, with what become famous words: “Don’t give up…don’t ever give up!”
We hope both Devon, Leah and their family members take their award and those words to heart as they continue to fight.
