Deetreena Perteet
A stern, yet compassionate caregiver, Deetreena Perteet has become the one constant in the life of her quadrapeligic son, Ondelee, that has inspired achievements that surpass even the most optimistic projections of his doctors.
The eldest of six children born to Carolyn Perteet, Deetreena has produced four children (including Ondelee) of her own. She also heads a group of siblings who represent a foundation within the family that collectively has encouraged, supported and sustained the recovery efforts of Ondelee.
As a single mother, Deetreena’s responsibility to her immediate family quadrapuled the night that Ondelee was shot in 2009, at which time, she sounded a rallying cry to her family members who, despite limited financial resources, answered with an outpouring of physical, emotional and psychological “donations” that effectively rescued Ondelee from the numerous pitfalls of depression and failure.
The leadership demonstrated by Deetreena as well as the commitment displayed by her family in the face of such a devastating crisis exemplify the true meaning and value of family, a characteristic that often separates failure from success.