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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Northwest Christian graduate tops in resilience

Northwest Christian graduate Joey Kershinar poses for a photo on April 1 at Northwest Christian. (Tyler Tjomsland)

Joey Kershinar’s road to graduation has been a bit rougher than most, but the journey has left him with a profound appreciation for big things like faith and family, as well as little things like the ability to smile.

“When I was 4, I was diagnosed with a brain tumor about the size of my fist,” he said.

Surgery followed, but doctors were unable to remove the entire tumor because of its proximity to his brain stem.

He was able to start kindergarten, but a series of complications meant that he missed a lot of school.

“I had to redo kindergarten because I was having health problems,” he said.

In seventh grade, he went in for an MRI and found the tumor was active again and there was a cyst surrounding it. Another operation followed.

Unfortunately, this surgery left him with facial paralysis and double vision.

The teen said he endured nearly every type of therapy available: “Physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, you name it,” he said, laughing.

Even though the therapies helped some things, Kershinar was told he wouldn’t be able to play football, crushing a long-held hope.

Efforts to regain the use of his facial muscles were partially successful. One side of his face is still paralyzed, but thanks to his close-knit group of friends at Northwest Christian, he wasn’t worried about being made fun of when he returned to school. “I was a little concerned about reading aloud and stuff,” he said.

Teacher Dan Ferguson said he’s been in awe of how Kershinar handled his health issues. “Most people would play the victim or say woe is me,” he said. “Not Joey. It’s been inspiring to kids and adults.”

He said Kershinar’s sense of humor has endeared him to the staff at NWC. “He’s quick-witted and smart. He’s very well-loved here.”

While his double vision meant a lot activities were off-limits, Kershinar said, “I’ve just learned to adapt and deal with it.”

He enjoys theater and appeared in “Fiddler on the Roof” at the school. “I like acting and being over-dramatic!”

History is his favorite subject – especially American studies. He said he’d like to attend college and get an education degree with the aim of being a history teacher.

Ferguson said he believes Kershinar’s faith has had a lot to do with his attitude. “He doesn’t let his illness define him,” he said. “He knows this is not all there is.”

Kershinar agreed. “I’ve had experience trusting in God. It’s the best thing to do,” he said. “I probably shouldn’t even be here now, but he kept me alive through all of this.”

Kershinar’s scheduled for an MRI this summer and is expecting a good report. While he’s looking forward to college, he’s sad to see his high school years draw to a close. He’s gained more than just academic knowledge during these years – he’s gained life perspective and it’s left him with a deep sense of awareness and gratitude.

He’s even glad he had to repeat kindergarten. “I wouldn’t be with the same group of great friends, if I hadn’t,” he said.

That’s just one example of the unexpected joys Kershinar has found in his journey.

Growing serious, he said he appreciates even the smallest of successes and advised, “Don’t take things for granted like being able to move your eyebrows or being able to smile.”