Some say happiness is the best medicine. For one Socastee High School junior and her brother, a prom night to remember helped fade away weeks of tiring radiation and chemotherapy.
And by the smile on TJ Gillenwater’s face Friday evening, that special dose of “medicine” was working.
Gillenwater, a young man with special needs, was rushed to the hospital in September, where doctors discovered several tumors between his head and spine. Since then, Gillenwater has endured rounds of chemotherapy and tiring radiation at the Medical University of South Carolina.
“TJ does not understand all of the things that are happening to him,” family friend Toni Newitt told News13. “His best understanding is that he has a ‘sore’ on his brain.”
But in the midst of treatment, he was in for a big surprise from his sister, Madison.
“I got a big box and wrapped it up like a present, put it in the living room and put our address on it,” she recalled. “And I popped out and asked him to prom!”
Their father says its a special moment they’ll never forget – one showing the true bond between a brother and sister.
“Me and my wife, Amy, are both proud of Madison for asking TJ. It gives him a little break from the chemo and radiation, and set all that aside and have a good time for one night,” he said. “The emotions were high because we went through so much.”
Todd and Amy Gillenwater were all smiles as TJ and Madison slipped into a white limousine parked outside of the family’s home. Despite a wet Friday evening, all four were all smiles. TJ – aside from dancing the night away – was more than eagerly anticipating the fun-filled experience.
“I’m excited cause I’m happy my sister Madison wants me to go to prom with her,” TJ said.
Several businesses and community members donated goods and services to make their unforgettable prom night a reality – including red carpet transportation by Carolina Limo, a tuxedo from Men’s Warehouse and dinner for the entire family at Longhorn Steakhouse.
