The Power of a Simple Gift: How a 13-Year-Old Boy Saved a Life
Life has a way of throwing challenges at us when we least expect them. Sometimes, those challenges seem insurmountable—until an act of kindness changes everything. One such story comes from Chicken Soup for the Surviving Soul and is beautifully captured in Teens Launch Campaign to Save Dying Baby’s Life by Jeff Leeland.
A Father’s Desperate Prayer
Jeff Leeland, a teacher at Kamiakin Junior High near Seattle, received news that no parent should ever have to hear. His six-month-old son, Michael, had been diagnosed with myelodysplasia syndrome—a pre-leukemia disease. His only chance of survival was a bone marrow transplant, which cost a staggering $200,000. Unfortunately, Jeff’s insurance had a waiting period on transplants, and the family didn’t have the money. Time was running out.
Jeff was devastated, but in the midst of his despair, a miracle arrived from the most unexpected place.
The Selfless Gift of a 13-Year-Old Boy
One day, a student named Dameon Sharkey walked into Jeff’s classroom. Dameon wasn’t a popular kid. He struggled with learning difficulties and didn’t have many friends, but what he lacked in social status, he made up for in heart.
With quiet determination, Dameon handed his teacher twelve $5 bills—his life savings. “I want to help save your son,” he said.
That moment changed everything.
Inspired by Dameon’s selflessness, the students of Kamiakin Junior High sprang into action. They organized a walkathon, held raffles, and even reached out to local media. Donations started pouring in—small at first, but then larger. A man walked into the bank and handed over a $10,000 check. A second-grade girl emptied her piggy bank.
In just one week, Michael’s account grew to $16,000. Within four weeks, the fund had amassed over $220,000. The bone marrow transplant was no longer a distant dream—it was a reality.
A Life Saved, A Legacy Born
Michael underwent chemotherapy and radiation before receiving a life-saving bone marrow transplant from his sister. On his first birthday, doctors delivered the news his family had prayed for—his white blood cell count had exceeded the minimum acceptable level. A week later, he was able to go home.
Three years later, Michael was in remission, with a 95% probability of a lifetime cure. But the story didn’t end there. The outpouring of generosity that saved Michael inspired the Leeland family to create The Sparrow Foundation, a nonprofit that helps fundraise for children in medical crises.
The Lesson: Kindness Can Move Mountains
This story reminds us that true wealth isn’t measured in dollars but in the kindness we share. Dameon Sharkey, a 13-year-old boy with only $60 to his name, became the catalyst for a movement that saved a life. His small gift created ripples that grew into a tidal wave of compassion.
When we think we are too small to make a difference, let’s remember Dameon. A simple act of love—no matter how small—can change the course of someone’s life.
So today, if you have the chance to help someone, take it. You never know the miracle it might set in motion.
Adapted by the story “Teens Launch Campaign to Save Dying Baby’s Life” written by Jeff Leeland featured in Chicken Soup for the Surviving Soul.
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This blog was reviewed by Dr. Sourabh Kharait.
This blog is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment plan, hydration strategies, or diet. The information provided here is based on general insights and may not apply to individual circumstances.
