Faculty members, staff and the entire student body of Keyser High School came together Thursday to honor one of their own — 16-year-old sophomore Josh Ross, a osteosarcoma patient, for his bravery and positive attitude during his battle with the malignant form of bone cancer.
Every fall sports team at the school autographed a piece of memorabilia relating to their sport and presented it to Ross on Thursday morning in the cafeteria. Ross was also showered with dozens of notes and cards from his fellow classmates, and given a cake, gift certificates, balloons, flowers, and other gifts.
“They came together as a group to show their support and love to Josh,” said a faculty member, who wished to remain anonymous. “They appreciate all of his bravery. He is an inspiration to them.”
The girls’ cross country team presented Ross with an autographed pair of running shoes while the girls’ volleyball team played a game dedicated to Ross on Sept. 3, while wearing name bands with his name on them.
“They also gave him an autographed ball and a poster,” said the faculty member.
The boys’ cross country team designed an original path for Ross and will be running in his honor in upcoming races.
KHS cheerleaders decorated a megaphone and gave it to Ross. The team is also working on special cheers that they will perform at various sporting events that honor the basketball player.
In addition, the boys’ golf team presented Ross with an autographed cap and dedicated their match to him against Mountain Ridge on Sept. 4.
“The athletes account for a third of the student body,” said the faculty member.
The boys’ and girls’ soccer teams also autographed a soccer ball and will dedicate their games to him while the football team autographed a football and will play in honor of him against Moorefield this week.
“Next week, during the first home game against Fort Hill, they want Josh to be there to inspire them before breaking through the banner,” said the faculty member.
Athletes weren’t the only ones praising Ross: Staff members honored Ross during Josh Ross Day at KHS by presenting him with a cake and flowers.
The KHS students in their advisory classes in grades 9-12 composed special cards and wrote personal notes to the sophomore while the student council made Josh Ross Day T-shirts, which they plan to wear throughout the year.
“Faculty, athletes and the student body all agree — knowing Josh has been a blessing at Keyser High School,” said the faculty member.
Ross said that he’s very thankful for all the kind words, gifts and recognition.
“I’m surprised the school actually let this happen,” said Ross, who enjoys playing basketball and hanging out with his friends in his spare time.  “It is very nice of people to do all of this, and the kids giving me stuff like that.”
Ross said he would like to receive messages and keep in contact with his friends by e-mail. He can be reached at joshua12bball@yahoo.com
Ross is also accepting cards and notes at 123 East Hampshire St., Piedmont, W.Va. 26750.