Three months ago, Dean Rossoff approached the family and wanted to know if it was OK for Ilan to join his classmates at graduation. We were so excited yet worried how his classmates would feel. After being reassured that the class had suggested including him, we happily agreed to it. Initially we did not know how Ilan would feel being wheeled into the auditorium. But at the time we said "hopefully he will walk by graduation"??? Little did we know how much Ilan would progress in 3 months!!
Ten days ago Ilan was awarded an honorary diploma from Milken Community High School. He was so excited to be with his classmates at the graduation that he did not stop smiling for over 4 hours! Ilan looked so handsome being all dressed up after so long. Everyone in his class was so good to him. After the entire class walked down the aisle to the stage, it was Ilan's turn. He proudly and confidently stepped forth into the auditorium. As he set foot int the auditorium, all the students on the stage and the entire community stood up and erupted with cheers and applause till Ilan took his place on the stage. To our great surprise, Ilan stood up with his class for the singing of the anthems. And an even bigger surprise was when he lipsynched the Hatikva along with everyone.
It was a pleasure to watch all the graduates get their diplomas and give Ilan a high five or hug him as they went back to their seats. Once again when it was Ilan's turn to walk and get his diploma there was thunderous applause as everyone stood to cheer him. We, his family, had goose bumps on our shoulders and arms and happy tears in our eyes at the love being showered on Ilan by the community.
It was a fabulous event. Thank you Milken class of 2010, faculty and administration, and the community for the tremendous support that was bestowed Ilan. It gave Ilan great pleasure being there and sharing it with everyone. We are positive that it will spur him to further achievements.
We wish everyone a very happy and fun-filled summer!
