Maddie Shura left an impact of courage and resilience that continues to be felt to this day by the students of Bellwood-Antis.
That includes the B-A football team, where nine senior players who were Shura's classmates years ago decided to honor her legacy this season.
The team decided to put wear gold ribbon decals with Maddie's initials on the back of the their helmets.
Kelly Shura, Maddie's mom, said she is touched that the senior class wants to include Maddie in their last year.
"The stickers are such a wonderful way to remember Maddie and bring awareness during Childhood Cancer Awareness month," Mrs. Shura said. "I am so touched by the fact that the senior class continues to include Maddie During their final year together. It means a lot to know they still remember her."
On April 14th, 2017, Bellwood-Antis student Maddie Shura passed away from diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG). DIPG is a rare, fast‑growing and aggressive brainstem tumor that forms in the pons, mainly affecting children aged 5–10, with about 200–300 U.S. cases per year.
Maddie would have been a part of the Class of 2027.
Coach Nick Lovrich said a discussion with a player's mother prompted the idea of the decals.
"Curtis Shedlock's mom reached out to me and said Maddie was in this year's senior class and loved football since she was a part of the cheerleading squad," he explained. "We had done the gold ribbons in the past and thought this was a perfect opportunity to honor Maddie."
Maddie also participated in dance and loved to run.
Her aunt, Chrissy Shura, who works in the high school office, appreciates the gesture.
"I love them and think they are a great way to remember her being a part of the senior class."
Maddie made a long-lasting impact on the Bellwood Antis community and will forever be in our memories.