The clang of a gong and the ringing of a bell were music to the ears of Cincinnati Bengals defensive tackle Devon Still. They signified the last day of radiation treatments for his 5-year-old daughter Leah, who was diagnosed with cancer in June 2014.
Leah has stolen hearts across the globe with her can-do attitude as she fought the disease. After she rang the bell, her dad posted a video of her celebration to Instagram with words of encouragement.
The tradition of ringing a bell at the end of radiation is practiced in various hospitals around the country. The University of Pennsylvania Health System, explains that the ritual is meant to celebrate a successful completion of radiation and to recognize the achievement of making it through the treatment.
Leah was honored last week with the Jimmy V Perseverance Award at the 2015 ESPYs. Her immune system was too weak for her to attend, but her dad accepted the award on her behalf. The NFL star thanked everyone battling cancer for the inspiration.
"On TV I look like the hero. I look like I'm saving the day. But honestly y'all are the real heroes," he said. "Y'all remain with a smile on your face. Y'all never give up."