The Sutherland Chronicles "Who Am I?"

My name is Devon Sutherland and I am 17 years old. I was born

on August3, 1990 and I live in Queens, NY. I currently attend

Jamaica High School and I am a senior. My favorite class is P

[hysical Education because athletics appeal to me. I was born in the

USA but my origins lie in Jamaica. There are manyevents throughout

my life that have changed for the better.

One event that has changed my life was the fact that I had

surgeries done on my legs and both were operated during my 7th and

8th grade yearrs. When I was a toddler, I had bowed legs, which

meant that my legs were shaped as bows. I was diagnosed with the

disease Blount. This Blount's disease occurs when the tibia grows

longer than the fibula. It created a longer contrast between the

lengths between the fibula and tibia. This created pressure on the

bones, which later created escessive pain. I endured both operations

and battled my way through physical therapy. These operations have

taught me to value what I have now. We as people take everything for

granted, until its gone. I've also learned to appreciate those who

care for me, and to be humble.

Another event that has changed my life was traveling to Europe

last summer in July It was truly interesting the way the British,

Welsh, and Irish people spoke. The sights were also amazing as well.

I also rode the London Eye in England during my stay. From this

past journey I ahve been exposed to other cultures that literally

opened my international views of the world today. I know now that

the USA is not the only country that doesn't have warm feelings

towards President Bus. I have also learned that respect is a great

asset that is needed throughout the world. We may not have the same

religion or come from the same country or race, but there is always

a common ground to be found.
In conclusion, there are many events throughout my life that

have allowed me to grow witht greater knowledge and experience of

other countries. My surgeries between 2003-2004 have given me the

strength and awareness to acknowlegde and grasp what I now have. My

travel to Europe has also opened my eyes to respect other cultures,

beliefs, and ideas. those countries were tools that assisted me in

my universal respect. In the future I plan to explore other

countries, and expose myself to ther cultures. The first chapter of

the "Sutherland Chronicles" have been completed.