We found out about Adam's diagnosis just as spring YMCA soccer was getting started. I remember Martha and I sitting on the field watching Adam practice. That was two days after the diagnosis was given. We knew he wouldn't be able to play in the season but wanted him to go to that practice anyway just to live normally a little bit longer. That was back in the slack-jawed stunned phase of all of this. We didn't know what to expect and it all seem surreal. That was Adam's last practice. He couldn't play in the season.
Adam really likes soccer. It's not that he is a great athlete but he has always enjoyed being on the teams. Coach Jason is an excellent coach. Very good with the boys, disciplined, but fun and always focuses on the fundamentals.
We ran into Jason at the Maryland Farms Y pool in Brentwood. Jason actually came up to us. He said he had something to give Adam. Jason went to his car and pulled this year's team jersey, signed by all the players, a trophy and a certificate. Jason said all the players voted to give Adam the "Bravest Player" award for the season and they are hoping Adam will be back in the fall.
Jason is a great coach, not just because he knows the game, but because he knows what it means to the kids. To Adam.
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