On December 14, 2016, the annual Winter Giving Assembly took place at Chapin High School. For Geomani Winstead, this day was particularly special.  

Geo has a rare bone cancer that developed in his upper left leg when he was only 11-years-old. He had to undergo surgery to try to remove the cancerous tumors. Afterwards, it spread to his lungs, which caused him to have surgery once more. There was a time of peace shortly after this until he went for scans, only to find out that the cancer had returned to his lower left leg and in his lungs again.

Chapin High School raised around $3,500 to send Geo to his dream vacation, New York City. Mac Eason, a senior at Chapin High School, was ecstatic to present the news to Geo and his family at the Winter Giving Assembly.

“Giving the speech meant a lot to me because I wanted to give credit to Geo for how great he is and how strong he is for what he’s going through. He inspires me to be a better person,” said Mac Eason.

Geo and his family have never been to New York before. Geo said that he is very excited to share this experience and this first time trip with them. While there, Geo would like to visit the Statue of Liberty, Times Square, the Empire State building, Coney Island, 5TH Avenue and the MET Museum.

“This trip really means alot to me! I can’t believe that you guys are doing all of this for me. It truly shows how much all of you love and care about what’s going on with me and my family. I would just like to thank all of you again! I am really grateful for all that this school and community does for me!” said Geo.

In the next few months to come, Geo will be having two major surgeries to remove the tumors. Geo said, “Now we just have to pray it doesn’t come back.”

“I think what helps me withstand this fight so much is my belief in the Lord. My family and friends have also been a great support group for me as well. I can’t forget the wonderful, loving and caring staffs at MUSC and Palmetto Health Children’s Hospital. I also believe that me trying to stay positive helps keep my spirit bright,” said Geo.

As for the whole student body of Chapin High School, we are all rooting you on, Geo!