David Untz
2004 Community Hero
David (a.k.a. “Davie”) may only be three, but he can talk about almost anything. Wise beyond his years, Davie is an articulate boy with a great imagination and an optimistic outlook on the world. His pet underwater snail, aptly named “Underwatery,” likes to eat fresh basil for dinner. David shares his pet’s fondness for eating green things – and, unlike most kids his age, never has to be asked twice to finish his broccoli. He loves trains, planes and automobiles. Known for his kindness to all living creatures, he even puts candy outside for the ants.
Although he was hospitalized for the better part of last year after being diagnosed with high-risk Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL), or cancer of the blood and bone marrow, Davie’s amazing sense of humor never once failed him. His ability to convey his feelings like an adult profoundly touches everyone around him – as does his love for his mother, whom he calls his best friend.
Davie refuses to let his challenging condition keep him from reaching out to new friends and getting a “kick out of life” whenever he can.
