Kevin Adams beats the odds
By Jackie Perrone jacper@juno.com

Kevin Adams of Dreher High School and Heyward Career and Technology Center was honored with the Governor's Citizenship Award on Monday, April 21 at the State House.

Each year the South Carolina Governor recognizes students from participating schools across the state with this award, which was initiated in 2001 by Governor Jim Hodges. Students are cited for achievement in service, leadership, responsibility, character, and discipline, and each receives a certificate and a medal.

Kevin Adams dreams of being a coach in the National Football League, preferably for his beloved Denver Broncos. For now, he is cheering from the sidelines for the Dreher Blue Devils wearing his #77 jersey. He brought along his own cheering squad for the citizenship ceremonies: his mother Geneva Adams, Heyward Principal Sherry Rivers, and Heyward teacher Audra Green- Castor.

Kevin's most recent achievement has been gaining the ability to walk. He was born with cerebral palsy and underwent surgery four years ago to help improve his mobility. With the aid of physical therapy, he was able to walk only two months ago.

Born prematurely, this student weighed one and a half pounds at birth. Doctors said he would never walk, talk or live long, but he has defied the odds. He does well with his school work and immerses himself in pro football. His teacher, Ms. Green- Castor, nominated him for the honor, because with his spirit and perseverance he embodies the principles stated for the Governor's Citizenship Award, .

Kevin's father, Major Victor Adams, was deployed to Kabul, Afghanistan a year ago. The Army made arrangements for him to see Kevin receive the award via a Webcast. This was the first time he has seen Kevin walk independently since the surgery four years ago.

Major Adams is scheduled to return to Columbia in a few weeks. Kevin has promised his father he will race to the door to greet him when he comes home.