Graduation Day Comes Early for Teen With Cancer

Wearing a royal blue gown and a cap with a red, yellow and blue tassel, 17-year-old Brice Dickerson realized his last goal of high school Monday night.

Brice, who has a form of brain cancer, became the first graduate of Fountain Valley High School’s Class of 1994.

With a standing ovation and thundering applause by the more than 300 students, friends, teachers and family members in attendance, Brice was awarded his diploma during the special early commencement ceremony.

The ceremony was held at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which Brice and his family attend and which is next door to the high school. Brice’s parents, Mike and Cindy Dickerson, and his teachers decided to hold the early graduation because of his worsening condition. Brice has battled cancer since he was 9.

“He deserves it. He’s worked very hard,” said Cindy Dickerson, who cried during the ceremony.

Brice, who was both “a little nervous and a little excited” before the ceremony, just smiled when it was over as people lined up to offer their congratulations.

“I’m very happy,” Brice said. “These people are one of the reasons I can graduate right now--all the support they have given me and all the calls they have given me to make sure I’m OK. They’ve been there for me.”

Brice said graduating from high school meant that he is not different from his classmates, despite his illness.

“I want to be a normal person,” Brice said. “I just want to thank the students and the high school who have supported me.”

Red, yellow and blue balloons festooned the church, and walls were decorated with hand-painted banners that read “Way to Go Brice,” “We Love You Brice,” and “Congrats.”

During the ceremony, the school’s girls’ choir sang, “One Moment in Time” by Whitney Houston. Brice fought back tears, while many of those attending cried.

Following the song, Principal Gary Ernst gave a challenge to the students in the audience: “Take that moment in time and make it shine, shine and shine. Brice, you’ve touched us all.”

With the typical pomp and circumstance of any graduation, speeches were also delivered and a party was held afterward.

Ron La Ruffa, Brice’s baseball coach, said Brice is an example of someone who has gone the extra mile, who has leaped over obstacles and persevered to reach his potential.

“He’s always seen his glass half full, not half empty,” La Ruffa said. “He’s always fulfilled his dreams.”