COLUMBIA, S.C. – A Heartwarming Comeback
In the bustling town of Columbia, South Carolina, a remarkable story of resilience and gratitude has emerged from the football field of Brookland Cayce High School. Young athlete Drevon Dopson has proven that no challenge is too great to overcome, especially after facing a life-changing health crisis.
Facing the Toughest Battle
This past summer, Drevon, a dedicated football player, found himself battling an unexpected enemy: ulcerative colitis (UC). It all began with subtle signs that something wasn’t right. “I noticed he was losing weight… he doesn’t look the same,” said Rusty Charpia, the head football coach. Parents and coaches alike started worrying as Drevon mentioned feeling dizzy and lightheaded more frequently.
After a football camp in July, things took a turn for the worse. Drevon’s mother, Octivious Dopson, recalls a terrifying day when they rushed him to the hospital. “I realized that I was getting tired quicker,” Drevon shared. The situation escalated, leading to emergency surgery where doctors had to remove a staggering 90% of his large intestine.
A Ten-Day Hospital Stay
As Drevon lay in the hospital for ten days, connected to feeding tubes and recovering from surgery, his family and friends felt a mix of fear and hope. “It was rough, man. It was rough seeing him go through it,” admitted his father, Andre Dopson. Initially, Drevon was uncertain if he would ever play football again.
Miraculous Healing
Against all odds, doctors were amazed at Drevon’s healing progress. While most patients typically need a year to recover from such major surgery, Drevon astoundingly healed in just around two months. It’s clear that his determination and the support from his family played a crucial role in his recovery.
Drevon slowly returned to practice, adapting to life with a colostomy bag. Allen Knotts, a board member for Lexington School District Two and assistant coach, noted how the team made accommodations to ensure Drevon felt comfortable, stating, “He had his protective PPE on. Everything was wrapped.”
Back on the Field
Fast forward to September, and Drevon was ready to make his grand return to the football field. “My first game back, I was kind of nervous,” Drevon admitted, but once he got into the groove, everything started to fall into place. A successful game even led to their first victory of the season, something the team desperately needed.
A Time for Thanksgiving
As the Thanksgiving holiday approached, the Dopson family reflected on their challenges and the triumph of family being together. Drevon expressed profound gratitude: “I’m thankful to God… He’s still got me here.” His parents echoed his sentiments, celebrating the blessings they still have each day.
Looking ahead, Drevon is scheduled to have his colostomy bag removed in December, paving the way for a brighter future as he gears up for his senior year. With plans to build on his success and a newfound appreciation for health and family, the future looks promising for this spirited young athlete.
A Journey of Gratitude
A story like Drevon’s reminds us of the power of resilience and the importance of family support during tough times. As they gather to celebrate Thanksgiving, the Dopsons embrace the joy of togetherness, reflecting on a year full of challenges that only brought them closer.
In the heart of Columbia, Drevon Dopson stands as a testament to strength, proving that even after facing the darkest moments, brighter days filled with hope and gratitude lie ahead.
