Skip to main content

Deven Jackson’s football dreams come true

dsc_8356

Like many twelve-year-old boys, Deven Jackson has many dreams involving football. But for this Pennsylvania resident, his takes on special significance.

Four years ago, Deven became severely ill and was eventually diagnosed with bacterial meningitis at Penn State Children’s Hospital. The disease sent him into kidney failure and eventually resulted in the amputation of both of his lower legs in August of 2012.

But today, Deven is standing tall. After months of grueling physical rehabilitation to learn to walk on his prosthetic legs and eventually run on prosthetic blades, he returned to his football team to play the game he loves.

img_1455
160523_ra_cmn_golf_185Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals caught up with Deven in Harrisburg, PA earlier this year as he and his family were the featured miracle family at a CMN Hospitals fundraiser put on by Rite Aid. The corporate golf tournament featured Deven’s mom, Michelle, who spoke of Deven’s fight and Deven was presented with a signed NFL photo by Rite Aid leadership.

Although Deven was sidelined from playing this season by a leg infection, he was still able to cheer on and inspire his team with his determination to get back on the football field. But the real surprise was still to come for Deven.

img_9549Deven loves the New York Giants and a few weeks ago got to meet the entire team along with his favorite players Odell Beckham Jr., Eli Manning and Victor Cruz. The players encouraged him to stay strong in his journey back to the game.

img_9434img_9480img_9555
With the help of the New York Giants, Penn State Children’s Hospital and Rite Aid, Deven is battling the odds to play his favorite game—football.

You can watch Deven’s story on the NFL Network.

To support Deven and kids just like him across the country, #BeTheirMVP by making a donation to children’s hospitals.

Donate Today

dsc_8361