My son name is Jaquavious, he goes by Quay. Quay was diagnosed at the age of 17 at the beginning of his senior year of high school.
Quay battled kidney cancer for almost 2 years (1 year, 8 months, 1wk, and 1 day) before gaining his wings. Quay was so full of life! He kept the biggest smile and gave the best hugs you could ever imagine!
Growing up, Quay was a risk taker (daredevil, I would call him). He wasn’t afraid of anything! Quay would try skating down grass hills and ride his bike downstairs. He even taught himself how to skate in lines. Quay is the middle child, so he is very adventurous and carefree but also very loving and soft-spoken. He had a love for horses, dogs, cats, family, friends, lots of snacks, fishing, and fashion.
Throughout Quay’s cancer journey he continued to smile and kept a great attitude. Whenever asked how he was doing, Quay would say, “I’m ok” or “I’m fine,” the best attitude ever for battling such a harsh illness. Quay completed his Senior year and graduated with his classmates, even though he missed many in-person classes. Nothing but smiles!!!! This made our hearts so happy!!
Jaquavious loved his mom, 2 brothers, and grandmother something serious.
During Quay’s battle he strived to do as many things as he could possibly do. Zip lining, Disney, medieval times, horseback riding multiple times, Camp Sunshine, Lighthouse Family Retreat, Prom, getting a tattoo, spending time with family and friends, and taking over his mommy’s bed full of snacks.
Quay smiled throughout it all, kept the best attitude, and made so many friends and memories for us to embrace for a lifetime. Since his passing I hold on to that beautiful smile and the upbeat attitude. BECAUSE!! As my son was battling this awful disease, I was breaking inside every day, but the smile he gave wouldn’t allow me to stop.
These babies (no matter their age) go through so much. I wish things were different. I wish I could watch my son grow and smile again. Since Quay’s passing, our house is quiet and we’re trying to find spark again. A very precious life gone too soon.
“Childhood cancer will and does change your entire outlook on life.”
