For Ikeem Homegoing

Ikeem Tyquan Rhodes, was born on February 9, 2006, a healthy bouncing baby boy. Ikeem suffered a life altering accident at the age of 3. He was unable to walk, talk, see, or do anything for himself. When I was told by the doctors that he would never do these things, I made it my mission in life to provide this baby with every tool in life to not feel different. I became his guardian and, from then on, my work began. I attended every doctor's appointment, procedure and operation and through it all he never complained. I worked with him and his confidence grew. Although he couldn't walk and make any movement, I always told him , "Your brain is just fine." I instilled in him the ability to be kind to others and they will be kind to you. When he had nurses that were given information that he couldn't talk, when he spoke to them, they were floored. He would say, "Thank you", "Yes please", "You're welcome , and "How did your day go?" He touched and surprised so many people with his inability to see, but still be able to recognize them and know their name. They were amazed at how he knew when and who was walking into the room. He had the ability to recite word for word every movie and cartoon that he liked.

 

Ikeem's body had started to twist and he had major spinal surgery to correct it on October 4, 2021. Ikeem was just recovering without complications at home . On Monday, November 8th, Ikeem went into cardiac arrest and, in the ICU unit at Rush Hospital, he went into a coma. I sat by his bed in ICU and contemplated how this kid touched and made a lasting impact on so many, I just cried and cried. When I was told there was no brain activity, as hard as it was, I had to accept the inevitable. Nothing can prepare you for death and I prayed and prayed for his recovery. I talked and talked to him, assuring him that I was and will be ok. He let go. My angel.

 

Ikeem made his transition on Saturday, November 13th, with me by his side. I loved this kid and he and a piece of me passed away with him.

 

I am asking for your help to raise $6,500 to bury him and give him a proper funeral. Originally, the fundraising goal was set for the GoFundMe campaign for $13,000, and then we received a generous donation from Ikeem's previous elementary school and CPS, so I've changed the amount to what is still needed. Any amount, no matter how small towards this goal, will be appreciated. Thank you for your helping honoring this brave boy.