Slajchert is slated to deliver a speech in support of the LucStrong Foundation at Oak Park’s graduation ceremony Thursday.
JD Slajchert went out for pizza after every basketball game during his playing career at Oak Park High School. And he was always joined by his biggest and youngest fan, Luc Bodden, who was living with sickle cell disease.
“The main theme I touch on and I’ve learned about myself is this idea of the purity that children have,” Slajchert said. “When we meet these people that are so full of life, so bright, have so much hope, we have to protect them.” The disease left Bodden unable to attend large or professional sporting events far from home, so Oak Park basketball became a bright spot in his life. Slajchert, who was the 2013 Tri-Valley League Most Valuable Player, was Bodden’s favorite player and a long-lasting friendship was formed when the two played basketball together prior to a bone marrow transplant.
He penned his first book, Moonflower, based on his experience with Bodden. It’s fiction, but follows a coming-of-age story arc similar to what Slajchert experienced in his own life.
Indonesia Berita Terbaru, Indonesia Berita utama
Similar News:Anda juga dapat membaca berita serupa dengan ini yang kami kumpulkan dari sumber berita lain.
Park Ridge police: Woodland Park, North Park graffiti, vehicle stolenThe following items were taken from Park Ridge Police Department reports. An arrest does not constitute a finding of guilt. Criminal Damage to Property A witness observed three to four juveniles wa…
Baca lebih lajut »
Jitters turn to excitement for Oak Forest’s Keira Clancy. ‘I just close my eyes.’ Then she opens them with her play.Oak Forest vs. Oak Lawn softball.
Baca lebih lajut »
Oak Park-River Forest High School ending academic year, 150th anniversary with block partyAs the school year winds down, Oak Park-River Forest High School is marking the end of its 150th anniversary celebration with a “Community Block Party” Sunday at the school in Oak Park. “The purpos…
Baca lebih lajut »
Economy Shop thrift store in Oak Park mansion combines giving with great deals'I didn't realize it's like a Victorian mansion full of, like, clothes that you can buy,' shopper Xara Schellhase said.
Baca lebih lajut »
Oak Brook Park District’s annual Pink 5K run raises over $24,000The Oak Brook Park District’s annual Pink 5K Run/Walk again was a big success Saturday, with more than 1,000 participants raising more than $24,000 for the first time.
Baca lebih lajut »
Oak Park mayor hosting ‘move’ bicycle event, giving away bike helmetsWith village leaders deeming last year’s inaugural event a “great success,” Oak Park is again hosting the “Move with the Mayor” community bike ride, promoting health and bicycle safety. In a villag…
Baca lebih lajut »