A Twist of Fate: How One Teen’s Diagnosis Led to a Life-Changing Adventure
Genethlios was your average teenager- up until 2 years ago. He went to the gym, played guitar, and was even a rising star for volleyball on his way to compete for the Greek national team. Then one day, his reality as he knew it came crashing down when he was diagnosed with a severe case of scoliosis.
While being checked for a sports injury, Genethlios underwent a routine x-ray. But what the doctors found was anything but routine. They discovered he had scoliosis, and his spine was growing at an accelerated rate than his body, causing it to twist and compress. Doctors were shocked, Genethlios’ x-rays got progressively worse, and healthcare professionals urged him to seek surgery in the United States. The Evangelos Family was connected to Shriners Orthopedic Hospital in Greenville, SC by an organization in Cyprus. From there, they learned that all of their lodging needs would be taken care of by the Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Carolinas- right across the street from the hospital. Soon enough, they were on their way to the U.S., to receive life changing treatment.
Genethlios felt a wave of emotions as they prepared for the long journey; fear and uncertainty ravaged his mind as they had no idea what to expect before arriving at the Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Carolinas. When they arrived, they were greeted with smiles and a sense of community. Suddenly, they were filled with relief knowing they were safe, cared for, and supported.
“The most important part of the House is not the materials, but the people. The way they treat you, you feel like you’re at home- like you’re part of a family,” Genethlios’ father explains. “This experience is truly unique and changed who we are as people.” Since staying at RMHC, the Evangelou Family has had a few once in a lifetime experiences, a few of which included being a VIP guest at NASCAR Race and even touring Clemson University.
On April 4th, they were invited to the NASCAR Xfinity Driver Ryan Ellis, as part of Ryan’s Rider Program- dedicated to giving young racing fans that may be in a tough spot in life, an incredible day at the track. They met the driver, the pit crew, and even watched the race with the manager as a fully fledged member of the team.
Genethlios has also recently found inspiration for life after high school, deciding to pursue medicine so that he can help children just like him in the future. He even had the opportunity to tour Clemson University, one of the nation’s best public schools. When asked about his trip to Clemson University, Genethlios remarked, “It was like nothing I’ve ever seen before. The campus was magnificent. Everyone was so kind.” He hopes the next time he returns to the United States, it’ll be to pursue his secondary education at Clemson University- and maybe play for the men’s volleyball team!
But for now, Genethlios and his father are headed back home to Cyprus where he will reacclimate back to a normal life, going to school, playing volleyball, and spending time with friends and family. When the Evangelou Family will look back on their trip to the United States, they will not only remember the life changing treatment Genethlios received, but how the Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Carolinas made it all possible.
Written by Nicolette Occhifinto
