The Granville High School marching band supported sophomore baritone player Elliott King on Oct. 6 by wearing shirts and ribbons to bring positivity prior to his surgery, which would target his brain tumor.
About a year ago, Elliott learned that he had brain cancer, which shocked everyone.
“When I heard about what Elliott would have to go through, I was obviously heartbroken,” said senior field commander Kate Miller. “But I knew few people matched Elliott’s strength and that if anyone could fight this fight and win, it would be him.”
The entire band and some teachers gather to show support at the Homecoming pep rally.
When members of the band, parents, and the directors heard that he was scheduled for surgery on Oct. 10, they wanted to find ways to support him.
“I hoped the band could show him support by giving him a place where he could crack jokes, be himself and escape from the stress of what he would have to go through,” Miller added.
The band and some members of the GHS staff wore navy blue shirts with the words “STRONG AS A KING” to school on Friday. In addition, the band wore cancer ribbons on their band uniforms for the Homecoming game, which would be Elliott’s last time marching for the season in order to recover from surgery.
“In the face of adversity, few people have ever shown as much mental strength and fortitude as Elliott,” band director Jerod Smith said. “Wearing shirts that nearly tied into his name seemed very fitting and inspirational in the time of need.
Elliott King represents the sophomore class on the Homecoming Court along with Lydia Wigal.
On top of all of that, Elliott was nominated for the sophomore Homecoming Court by the class of 2026, which made the game that much more special.
“It was extremely exciting to be elected for the Homecoming Court,” Elliott said, “I was very taken aback when I found out I got it. Having gotten on Homecoming Court made the whole night a lot more fun and meaningful and made me feel immensely cared for by my peers and the teachers. It was the best game I have ever gotten to participate in.”
Thankfully, Elliott said his surgery on the Oct. 10 went “without a hitch.” He remains just as positive as always and is feeling great.
“Even post-surgery, Elliott is ready to take on life, band and everything else,” Smith said. “It’s truly inspirational and a good reminder that we should all count our blessings and live life with more positivity.”
