There is a happy ending to report tonight in the story of ten-year-old Neville Bermudez. We met him earlier this month in the KHMH, desperately in need of heart surgery. Thanks to Rotary's Gift of Life Program and donations from the community, Neville headed to Tampa where he got that life saving procedure performed. He returned today and 7NEWS was there.
Keith Swift Reporting, [keithkswift@gmail.com]
A month ago he was in a hospital bed, barely clinging to life and barely able to move but today 10-year-old Neville Bermudez was able to walk. He hopped down the steps of the American Airlines flight and onto the apron, hand in hand with his mother. He left mom to take care of business in Immigration and departed the airport terminal to the arms of family and friends
Neville Bermudez,
"I feel good."
Keith Swift,
Last time we saw you, you were in the hospital.
Neville Bermudez,
"Hmm. I don't what to say."
Equally speechless was his mom, Elizabeth Trapp who eventually made it through Immigration and Customs. She told us she is happy to have her son back.
Elizabeth Trapp, Mother
"There is no word to describe it because from the condition that he was in and now, it's like a big relief. There is no way to describe how I feel. I would like to say thanks to everybody. I don't know majority of them. I want to say a big thank you and may God continue to bless you all and I am so appreciative for the help they gave my child."
Keith Swift,
What was the best part of the trip for you?
Neville Bermudez,
"Getting out of the hospital."
And while he is out of the hospital, he is not out of the woods, at least not yet. For one he won't be able to use his new basketball for a while.
Elizabeth Trapp,
"Right now he is doing well. The doctor says he doesn't expect no problem in the future. He is recovering really well."
Jackie Woods, Channel 5 News
"He is saying the doctors say he won't be able to play ball for a while."
Elizabeth Trapp,
"For six weeks."
Jackie Woods,
"Why is that?"
Elizabeth Trapp,
"Because the surgery is still not healed properly so he has to take all the rest that he needs. So in six weeks time he can go back to his sports."
Keith Swift,
I see you have a basketball in your hand. Will you be playing ball?
Neville Bermudez,
"I don't know when they will make me play basketball sir."
A wish to play ball when a month ago his only wish was to just stay alive, a remarkable, and heart rending reversal of misfortune for this family.
Neville will have to continue taking medications and there's no indication yet as to when he'll return to school.
