In April 2011, Lashanda Armstrong drove her minivan into the Hudson River in an attempt to kill herself. She had had an argument earlier with her unfaithful significant other. It is absolutely devastating that she didn't have the strength to move on from this hurdle and stay strong for her four children but the most devastating of all is that her children were in the minivan with her. "If I die, you're all going to die with me," she said to them, ages 11 months, 2 and 5, as the minivan sank. Fortunately, 10-year-old Lashaun Armstrong broke free and, after his mother realized her mistake, swam for help. Unfortunately, he alone survived.
Someone especially moved by the tragedy of Lashaun's situation, was Ray Lewis, the linebacker for the Baltimore Ravens. As I do not follow American Football, I had to do some research on Ray Lewis and I found that he is human, i.e. not perfect, and hardly likely to be NFL's Mr. Congeniality. However, Lewis, having overcome some family issues of his own, forged a bond with Lashaun. "I looked at him and told him, 'I'm here for you man. I can't replace what you've lost. But I can tell you that I'm here to go forward with you.'" Although I didn't hear him say it, something about this struck an emotional chord and almost made me cry. True to his word, Lewis has become a fixture in Lashaun's life. Lashaun even told reporters on the Today Show that Lewis is like a big brother to him and considers him family.
Seeing them interact, I have no doubt about their bond. There is a kinship there that some consanguine relatives don't even possess. I love that other NFL players are also coming to the 10-year-old's aid, covering counselling and establishing scholarship funds. This is my feel good story for the weekend. I wish other children just like or worst of than Lashaun would get a chance just like this.
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