KTEN reported that Denison High School in Texas has welcomed its first legally blind marching band member. Sophomore Keshawn Kemp joined the Yellow Jackets ensemble this year as the program reaches its largest size in nearly three decades. Band director Melissa Lewis told the station that Kemp, who plays the euphonium, approached her alongside section leader Jackson Stone to express confidence in their ability to march together.
Kemp was diagnosed with retinoblastoma, an eye cancer, at two months old and is now legally blind. He began playing drums at age two at his grandmother’s church before transitioning to guitar and eventually the euphonium. Lewis noted that Kemp does not skip repetitions and stays in step during every rehearsal. To navigate the field, Kemp relies on trust and is paired with Stone, whom he describes as a friend. Stone expressed pride in assisting Kemp, while Kemp’s mother, Shalonda Ford, emphasized her son’s determination to succeed regardless of barriers. Kemp said he feels happy and excited for others to hear what the group has perfected.
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