Anybody can be somebody’s hero. Heroes are persistent; heroes are persistent in fighting for what and whom they love. In times of difficulty, pain, and suffering, there are only two options: to fold or to fight. Heroes fight.
My name is Angel Dominguez and my family is persevering through COVID-19. This pandemic has affected everyone differently. My tia (aunt’s) Cindy’s family has had to adjust the most. They have experienced the difficulty and pain of fear and isolation. I look up to my tia’s family and their story; their story focuses on change, courage, and patience.
My precious cousin, Malachi Miller, was born with Treacher Collins syndrome. He has already had surgeries and hundreds of doctor visits. He has been strong and courageous the whole way through. Unfortunately, his first year on earth has been during this pandemic. Therefore, his family has had to adjust and change their daily choices: starting with staying inside and isolating.
Malachi lives with four very loving family members: his parents Cindy, and Major Miller and his two brothers Manny and Malcolm. They, like most of our large family, are active. They all love sports, taking trips, going to school, and spending time outside. These activities, however, have to be extra restrictive because of Malachi being at high risk during this pandemic. They have had to miss whole sports seasons, in-school participation, park visits, and many important family events.
Any exposure to COVID-19 could harm Malachi’s sensitive breathing system. Therefore, Malachi’s loving family has sacrificed and fought the urge to go out and live freely because of the love and care they have for him.
1 Corinthians 13 teaches us, “Love is patient, Love is kind”. This is what my family demonstrates beautifully for Malachi. During this pandemic, my family has been patient in prayer that a cure will be found and they will be able to resume their active lives. While waiting, they hope to not become frustrated with the situation, but to be kind instead. To be kind to ourselves and to those around us. They fight each day to make the right choices to protect themselves and the ones we love.
The Miller family has taught me this: to be strong, loving, and patient, no matter the circumstances. During this pandemic my heroes are Cindy, Major, Manny, Malcolm and Malachi.
