By Genia Woods, a.k.a. Mz Good Newz

For the Salisbury Post

Meet Elijah Makai Foster. He was a 13 year old “miracle child born at just 1 pound and 13 ounces” as told by his mother, Amomica Ajayi.

Elijah was a student of Erwin Middle School where he was celebrated. Despite the odds and challenges he faced from the very beginning, Elijah lived a beautiful life and touched the hearts of so many like: his best friend and mother; brother Phillip Ajayi; and sister Amani Ajayi; godparents Patrick and Jessica Thomas; Aunt Stephanie Allison Hall; his pastors, Donald Anthony & Pastor John Geter and Sis Emma Geter; his teachers Kathryn Baker and Kim Caldwell and his Principal Daniel Herring.

Although, they may grieve and mourn due to the passing of the bright, loving and witty, Elijah we also would like to celebrate his life and the love he left behind. Elijah’s legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

This is a story of hope, love, character, family, friends and community.

From his first breath, Elijah defied the odds and showed an unwavering strength. He brought joy and hope to his family and friends, and touched the lives of those who had the privilege of knowing him.

As Elijah’s godmother Jessica said, “He was his personality and that was love for his family, friends and community that will never depart.”

Brother Phillip Foster added, “I would always cry whenever my brother Elijah would win any award or have any ceremony acknowledging his accomplishments.”

Knowing someone’s constant efforts to overcome daily challenges is definitely a reason to be overwhelmed with joy. Despite his health challenges, Elijah had a mother, a family and a support system that were determined not to allow Down syndrome or any disability to be a mental handicap for progression. He proved that limitations were just a state of mind.

From church to the classroom, you will hear the same thing about Elijah and that is “he was a joy to be around.”

John Geter and Anthony both shared how their separate congregations will miss Elijah’s occasional “Amens” in agreement with the word.

Elijah was a clever young man that was known to shock his family with his ability to retain song lyrics “verbatim, every word of Sponge Bob songs” said his godfather Patrick.

Elijah taught us the true meaning of unconditional love and overcoming. He brought families closer together and showed us the beauty in every moment. We will forever be grateful for the time we had with him. His journey may have been brief, but the impact of his spirit will be felt forever. May you find strength in the love and support of your family, friends, and community during this time.

Please support the family by donating whatever you can to help with medical cost during this difficult time.

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Zelle: (704) 232-3238

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Thank you in advance.

The funeral arrangements for Elijah Foster will be Saturday, Aug. 3 at North Main Baptist Church, located at 1501 N Main St., Salisbury. The visitation is at 11 a.m. The funeral service begins at noon.