teen spotlight
photography by Shelby Berry
stats
18, Senior at Benjamin Russell High School
notable
Two Time Powerlifting State Champion; HOBY Leadership
Delegate; BRHS Football Linebacker
quotable
“Be the best you can be.”
his story
Benjamin was diagnosed with cancer at age 13, and he credits
this with providing the most inspiration in his life so far. He
shares, “Going from a normal teenager to being locked up in
the hospital for months with an IV pole constantly attached
and having procedures or surgeries every week really put how
important life is in perspective for me. Once I beat cancer, I
made it my goal not to take anything for granted. I want to be
remembered as a good Christian person who has helped people
around me and my community.”
At Benjamin Russell High School, he is a linebacker on the
football team, a member of the golf and soccer teams, and a
member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. He is a two
time state champion in powerlifting and even holds records in
the sport.
Benjamin also takes his academics seriously- he is a member
of the National Honor Society and is dually enrolled at Cen-
tral Alabama Community College. He enjoys being actively
involved in extracurriculars because he “loves to compete and
learn new skills.”
what’s next
“When I finish college, I want to take part in my family’s busi-
ness, Russell Lands.” He worked last summer with the Russell
Lands Forestry Division and plans to continue his work there
in the future because he “wants to learn and grow with the
company.”
ben jamin hendrix
Alexander City, AL
PG (parental guidance) rating
Benjamin explains, “My family is strong and always there for
each other.”
parents’ perspective
Bill and Dedie share, “Benjamin experienced and conquered a life
threatening disease at the beginning of his teenage years that made
him sick and weak, but eventually made him the strongest and
bravest young man we’ve ever known. We admire Benjamin for his
courage.”
parent-to-parent
Dedie advises other parents to “always be thankful for
every moment with your family. Even bad circumstances
can turn out for the best, so be patient, count your bless-
ings, and thank God for them daily.” She adds, “Never give up an
opportunity to hug your child and tell them you love them.”
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Fall 2017
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