Melvin’s Story (Video)

A tragic shooting put Melvin Parker’s young life in jeopardy.

When he arrived at Good Shepherd Rehabilitation Hospital Pediatric Unit, Melvin had a feeding tube and couldn’t do anything on his own. It was as if he was starting life over. He had to learn how to sit up, talk and eat through inpatient pediatric rehabilitation.

But Melvin’s strong spirit, his family’s love and the dedicated Good Shepherd team helped return Melvin to home after the multiple trauma incident. After four months at Good Shepherd, Melvin went home walking, talking and drinking on his own.

“The love and dedication that Good Shepherd gave to Melvin saved my son,” said his mom, Tihara Brooks. “I didn’t give up on him because he didn’t give up on himself.”

“He is strong. Melvin Strong.”