HENRY COUNTY, Ga. — A metro Atlanta 18-year-old was able to keep a smile on his face, even after being T-boned by a school bus just days before graduation. Doctors surprised him, making sure he did not miss out on his big day.
Jaylen Thomas spent days at Grady Hospital fighting for his life before doctors transferred him to Encompass Rehabilitation Hospital of Henry.
While doctors said his attitude has been incredible, his condition was horrific. Doctors said Thomas could not stand or walk on his own, making it harder to experience daily life.
“Despite these obstacles, Jalen’s determination to regain his independence was unwavering with dreams of becoming a firefighter one day,” said an Encompass Health spokesperson.
Jaylen missed his high school graduation as he healed from his devastating injuries, but he continued to keep the entire staff smiling.
The nurses and doctors quickly discovered Thomas’ calm, confident demeanor and knew he would be a tremendous asset to the fire force. So, they surprised him with a graduation and career day.
Thomas’s friends, family and high school principal came to the rehab facility to celebrate his graduation.
“Jaylen received his diploma with a smile from ear to ear," said an Encompass Health Spokesperson.
After his graduation, Henry County Fire Rescue members showed up at the graduation to support him and show him around the engine, giving Jaylen the chance to take a special tour of the fire rigs and get a glace of life as a firefighter.
Firefighters are confident he would be an extraordinary firefighter after watching him overcome obstacles with courage and strength.