A North Carolina woman graduates from Johnson C. Smith University this weekend and her journey getting there is one to remember.
Her first go-round as a college student came over 20 years ago. Sherri L. Davis became pregnant when she was 19 years old at North Carolina Central University, making the bold decision to put her education on hold and instead, raise her son, Bryan. According to a Facebook post, the first few months of his life were met with a number of health complications. By the time he reached age two, Brian was diagnosed with Alagille Syndrome, a genetic disorder known to attack the liver. Once he became of school age, Davis says her son’s future would with be met more challenges.
“He didn’t start walking until he was 3 yrs old. I was told by his preschool director that he would probably never talk, and all he would do is utter groans and moan,” Davis said.
For the next few years, Davis would watch Bryan’s health spiral downward as she stood by his side through numerous procedures and hospital visits. But their story doesn’t end here. Bryan is living proof of how powerful a praying mother can be.
They made it.
Davis eventually continued her studies while staying on top of Bryan’s education and medical care. That was 22 years ago. Now, the two of them are graduating.
She’s been documenting the journey along the way.
In addition to her duties as mom and student, Davis is the owner of SD’s Home Cooking & Catering Service.
To best describe the experience she wrote, “Through it all… I would do it all over again, to experience this moment right here. So if you wanna know why I’m so amped about graduating… LOOK AT WHAT THE LORD HAS BROUGHT US THROUGH!!!!”.
Here is her full testimony.
I am truly inspired.
Thank you for sharing your courage, Sherri. I wish you and Bryan a lifetime of continued succes, together.
