The Drake I Know

At the age of fourteen boys are growing into the men they will one day be, and the passions that surround them are one of those major contributors that lead them upon the path to manhood. Yet not all paths are full of sunshine and daisies, some paths are rocky and steep, with the occasional rock slide. During these times of difficulties one’s true self rises up no matter what the age, and shows the world just what can be accomplished with determination, but sometimes this person needs a little help along their path.

I met Drake a little over two years ago, and never in my life have I met someone that has shown me so much about what it is to be a good person. In this day and age where everyone is in a hurry to go here or there, or just looking out for one’s self, the person that Drake is really is something quite unique. I have seen him strike up conversations with perfect strangers, and give a smile to a person who might not have received one otherwise. People can be cold, and indifferent, and everyday life can become monotonous, but not for Drake. This kid sees everyday as a gift, as something special, someone new to meet, something new to do. It is really something to know someone that has that kind of zeal for life, he is almost exhausting just to watch. Drake cares for a small farm for miniature animals, that includes a horse, chickens, ducks, and sheep. I’m sure more animals will find their way to the home soon, but that is just what I can remember for right now. He also rides horses, makes homemade jewelry, and competes in Special Olympics.

Oh I didn’t tell you? Drake is a little person, and doesn’t stand any taller than mid-thigh on me, but has this handicap hampered him in any way? I don’t think so. Besides the affliction that keeps him small, all people should strive to be as good as a person as Drake is, and I mean everyone. If people were as kind and generous as this little man is the world would be a much better place. I have learned a lot from him, and others that I know have said the same.

Unfortunately life is not always roses, and the proverbial rockslide has just crossed Drake’s path in life. Drake was recently diagnosed with moyamoya disease, which is a rare cerebrovascular disorder characterized by a progressive narrowing of the carotid arteries leading into the brain. As these arteries narrow, Drake’s brain will receive less blood, which will cause him to experience cognitive and learning impairments as well as multiple strokes. Without treatment, Moyamoya disease can be fatal due to intracerebral hemorrhage.
What truly disgusts me about this is that Drake has conquered what it means to be a good person, and now he has to battle this too. It doesn’t seem fair, but then again these things never are. That is where this blog comes in. I will be just one of the many authors that will be letting you know about how Drake is battling this terrible disease, and I will be one of the first to let you know when he recovers from this.

Keep stopping back for more information, and if you would like to make a donation to help this incredible young man, that information will be available soon.

This is all for that one special person that has been such a beacon of light in the darkness. The one that has taught so many so much. When I grow up, I want to be like Drake.


-Joel