Mr. Spates believes in living a full life with this disease instead of feeling sorry for himself. He understands that there will be times in which he’ll feel extremely bad, but he also knows that in a few days he’ll be better again. During his childhood, he was told that he wouldn’t live past the age of 11. However, he refused to comply with the doctors’ restrictions and limitations. In high school, he participated in football and track & field. Mr. Spates’ family instilled a powerful belief in him at a young age that the disease wouldn’t prevent him from living. It’s this determination, resilience, and courage that propelles him throughout his life.
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