A Small Town Mourns the Loss of a Hero

COMMENTARY | Stevy Cellum was an inspiration to all. She was a small-town girl turned bigtime hero. At 16 years old, she had already been battling cancer for more than two years. Her battle began in February of 2009 when she was diagnosed with Osteosarcoma at 14 years old. After having to endure the news of the bone cancer, one year and four months later she was diagnosed with Leukemia as well.

After having 15 chemo treatments, she still managed to muster up strength to promote the donation of blood at heh local High school blood drive. She was always thinking of others and putting herself last.

She loved God and attended Calvary Baptist Church on a regular basis when well. Her love of God and his teachings kept her going when all seemed lost. Stevy's favorite Bible verse was "I can do ALL things through CHRIST who strengthens me." (Philippians 4:13)

Stevy has more than 1,400 friends on Facebook, which is only a fraction of the people whose lives she touched during her short time here on Earth. Hundreds of people had flocked to provide donations for the support of Stevy. Posters, windows, T-shirts, bracelets and hats all display the words "We Believe" and "Team Stevy." People everywhere wore them proudly in support for their beloved town hero.

On Oct. 15, 2011, the news spread that Tishomingo's little Stevy had gone home to Jesus. The entire town mourned the loss of one of its most special people.

Stevy's funeral was held on Oct. 20 in the Tishomingo High School Gymnasium. There was not a dry eye in the house. Hundreds of people came to say their goodbyes, every seat was filled and there was standing-room only. The local Channel 12 news was there as well, filming the event.

Stevy Cellum will never be forgotten. She will be in the mind and hearts of all of us forever. Her life reminds us to trust in God's will and to believe.