Folks on social are grabbing tissues and choking back tears as they celebrate former NFL defensive end Devon Still’s daughter Leah being cancer-free for five years.
The world first fell in love with then-4-year-old Leah and her story in 2014 when it was revealed she was battling stage 4 neuroblastoma. The chance of Leah surviving the cancer, which attacks immature nerve cells in various areas of the body, was 50-50. But just as hearts broke over her diagnosis, millions of people prayed, sent well-wishes and rooted for Still and his daughter to come out victorious.
Now age 9 and a big sister to 6-month old Aria Marie, Leah is joined by the world in celebrating her victorious milestone of still being in the game and cancer-free.
Still, 30, took to social media to share the news with his followers. In part, his heartfelt message read:
“Leah you are the strongest person I know. I thank you from the bottom of my heart for giving this battle everything you had. I know it wasn’t easy…I know it wasn’t fair…but you handled this battle like a #playmaker and inspired millions (especially me) while doing it. This is just the beginning I love you with every bone in my body ❤️ #CANCERFREE“
People from all walks of life rejoiced in learning that Leah had made it to the day so many had held out hope for.
“Amen. I’ve been following you since she got sick. This makes my heart happy!” one person wrote.
“Praise God 🙌🏽🙌🏽 I have been following you and Leah’s story for the longest. Congratulations baby girl 🎉,” wrote another.
“Literally kept a countdown of my own for this day!!!! I am soooo happy to hear that little miss Leah is cancer-free!!”