There are several momentous occasions in life and graduation is one of them. That’s why when Gina Ferreira learned her fellow team member, Desmond McClelland had missed his, she snapped into action. What unfolded is a true testament to what lies at the heart of Texas Children’s: a deep respect and caring for one another.
Desmond McClelland is a therapy technician in the Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapy department in The Woodlands, but he has been working to earn his associate’s degree in graphic design from Lonestar Community College. Upon completing his degree requirements, he made an unfortunate discovery, realizing he had missed the deadline to register for graduation. This one was particularly exciting, as he was set to be the first grandchild in his family to graduate from college. Desmond had also graduated high school during the pandemic and was unable to walk the stage.
“I could just tell he was not himself and he was really upset,” said Gina, recounting the day Desmond told her he would be unable to attend his graduation. “Graduation is an important milestone for a lot of people because it’s a huge sacrifice and takes self-discipline. It’s a time to be recognized,” she said. She decided to take matters into her own hands.
Working in conjunction with her team and with Desmond’s mom (Katrina Tyler, a nurse at Texas Children’s), she put together a plan. They would call Desmond away to shadow a fellow technician on an appointment so the team could ready the gym with a small stage and decorations. They brought in a cap and a gown for him to wear, a cake and even made him a diploma.
When he returned, the team was standing around the gym, clapping and using noisemakers while “Pomp and Circumstance” played, all there to celebrate Desmond walking the stage at “graduation.” As he crossed, his mom and stepdad were there waiting for him. His mom handed him his diploma.
“It was the most happiness I have ever felt in my life,” said Desmond. “It definitely lifted my spirit.”
This team went above and beyond to commemorate a major accomplishment in a young man’s life and it made an impact. Congratulations to Desmond, and thank you to the therapy team at The Woodlands for living and leading with heart.
