by Chadwick "Chavi"
In August of 2008 I was jumped by my former band. I was taken to the hospital for trauma to the head. After they ran a CT scan and then an MRI du to some abnormalities. They found a Pineal Brain Tumor. I was unaware until my family told me. But when they were called by some of my friends they rushed from Leesville, LA to Lufkin, Tx to the hospital. Doctors suggested immediate surgery. I was then transported to Shreveport, LA for a 9 1/2 hour procedure. They were able to remove most of the tumor but could not get it all, as they said death was a huge factor due to location of tumor. After that procedure I had a shunt bypass put in my brain that leads to my abdomen to transfer the brain fluid throughout my body. I have sense gone through the recovery stages of walking, talking, a lot of life basic things we all take for granted. During the recovery progress my dad, a Southern Baptist Preacher, was by my side speaking the word and helping in this process. I have become strong in my FAITH and feel it was God's calling in my life to show me my new path in life. Here it is 2012 and I am the drummer/percussionist for the band The Shiny Darks. I do what I love but now have a reason and a message to why I do it and it has become apart of my ministry. To try and reach those who were lost and confused like I was and I can now show that their is a true meaning in life. I thank God daily and try to walk the path He has put forth in front of me.
