Mary 'Brittni' Clements, my daughter, was diagnosed with leukemia February of last year and spent 39 days at Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa, Florida.  During that time, back home, there was a #teambrittni explosion happening.  I watched everyday on my phone, the only method I had in the hospital by which to keep in touch with what was going on at home.  I could see something building.  I told my ex-wife Deborah, I said, "I think something is happening back home.  I'm starting to see pictures of signs on the side of roads with Brittni's name on them".  In just a few days time, people all over the world were holding up 'Team Brittni' signs in pics on social media, speedways had Brittni's name on their marquees, celebrities were seen holding 'Team Brittni' signs as well, some even dropping by the hospital, it was insane.  Brittni had to be moved to the largest room on the cancer floor of the hospital because of all the mail and parcel being delivered everyday.  At one point, she had her own mail delivery cart that came two to three times a day.  One of the staff at Moffitt Cancer Center asked me, "Who are you people?".  I just replied, "We live in a very special place".

Team Brittni
Townsquare Media, Staff Photo
loading...

There were GoFundMe accounts set up and fundraisers back home, it really was unbelievable.  I still can't totally wrap my mind around it all.

Mail Cart
Townsquare Media, Staff photo
loading...

A few weeks ago, Gwen Goulas, one of the many people who did so much for my family, brought over to the house the final boxes of 'Team Brittni' items.  Keep in mind, there are 'Team Brittni' items in a storage unit in Maurice, La., some at her mom's and some at my house where Brittni lives.

Gwen Goulas
Townsquare Media, Staff Photo
loading...

I was going through the boxes Gwen brought over and found things that just blow me away.  I'm still in shock and in awe.

I can't begin to tell you how horrific the past year and a half has been.  No child should ever have to go through this and no parent should have to watch it.  Cancer is evil, very very evil.  We fight it everyday and will until Britt is 100% healthy.  But, as hellish as it's been, you Acadiana, have carried us in your arms, prayed and given to my family in ways I could never repay.  I am forever thankful and amazed by your love and generosity.  Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Remember, if you see unexplained bruises on your body or your child's body, see a doctor immediately.

More 'Team Brittni' Items Discovered

Save

Save

Save

More From 99.9 KTDY