(Written by her mother, Crystal, who found hope through Alonzo’s story after her 6 year old daughter was diagnosed with FSGS)
Nearly a year ago, our family was first contacted by an assistant from Zo’s Fund For Life after she heard about our six year old daughter’s struggle with kidney disease. My mind immediately went back to the day in that ICU room when our pediatric nephrologist first broke the news to us about our daughter’s diagnosis. After several months of treatment that did not work, a definitive biopsy revealed that Jada did in fact have the more serious, possible fatal, kidney disease called focal segmental glumero sclerosis. The first thing I remember hearing from our doctor’s lips that day was that big long name for her disease, and the second thing I heard him say was the name Alonzo Mourning. Who is that I thought? I know I’ve heard that name before – I’m pretty sure he is a famous athlete, but what does he have in common with my little girl? Our doctor went on to explain how Alonzo Mourning had been affected by the very same illness, and had overcome it to become an NBA champion! So, in our moment of utter despair over our daughter, our ultimate HOPE was found in our Lord, our wonderful pediatrician, AND Alonzo Mourning. Although at that time, the thought of ever meeting him was worlds away.
So, when we were contacted by Alonzo’s assistant we were absolutely overwhelmed! Why would someone who didn’t even know us, who was so busy with their own life take the time and effort to reach out to our family. She mailed us a signed copy of Alonzo Mourning’s book Resilience with a sweet message inside for our daughter, Jada. It was such a comfort and a hope that we received from reading about Alonzo’s battle and eventual victory over the same illness that had shaken our family to the core just a few months earlier. Not long after we received the book, my husband was contacted with an invitation to attend the annual “Zo’s Summer Groove” program. As we cleared our calendars and packed up our family to head to Miami, the excitement grew. Jada would look at Alonzo’s picture on the cover of his book almost daily so that she would recognize him when we got there. Little did she know that he would be so easy to spot in the crowd!
Once we arrived in Florida, we immediately felt very welcome after meeting the ZFFL staff members and the five other families in attendance. Over the course of the weekend, we all shared stories of our children’s fight with kidney disease – stories of complications and frustrations, but also stories of hope and healing. By the end of our visit, we had found a place in our new family and an inspirational support group. It was amazing to see how families from all across the country, with only a dreadful disease in common, can be joined together by understanding, compassion, and love for one another. I am so thankful to Alonzo and his organization team for their tremendous generosity and for bringing us all together for a relaxing getaway. Our family left this year’s event not only with rested bodies and minds, but also with a renewed ambition to give to and care for others who are dealing with illness.
I once read that when something bad happens to you, you can only hope that God will grow something from it – and hopefully it will be you! Well, God has definitely grown a whole forest of goodness through Alonzo Mourning’s adversity and now he is planting seeds in others too! Thank you Alonzo for your kindness, caring, and giving through Zo’s Fund For Life and your other community organizations. You are a HOPE to so many!
Told by Jada’s mother, Crystal Hood
