Despite a bone cancer diagnosis that prevented him from attending school physically and which has already robbed him of one leg, 17-year-old Caribbean Online Academy (OCA) graduate Nathel Taylor is defying the odds by completing his education virtually, while pursuing his dream to become a doctor.
The Gleaner that Taylor, who hails from Spanish Town, St Catherine, Jamaica and is currently entering fourth form at COA, suffers from osteosarcoma, an aggressive form of bone cancer, which usually begins in the arms or legs and is prevalent in teenagers and young adults.
However, he is determined not to let his illness destroy his schooling opportunities.
“I feel proud of myself for my academic success, especially while dealing with my health issues, and while being supported by my family and my wonderful teachers.
“Cancer took a lot of my time, but I refuse to let it take my education as well,” Taylor told The Gleaner.
Taylor’s resolution led him to copping the highest number of student awards during COA’s awards ceremony in July 2025, where he was the top overall student in his grade-eight batch. He also got the top prizes in his year-group for Physics, English Language, Social Studies, Business Studies, and Information Technology.
“I am motivated by my goal of entering the medical field, and by mom, who encourages me to strive for success. I never let an entire day go by without doing something, and it does not matter how small it is, I will still do something,” he continued.
His mother, Latoya Lamonious, described her son’s educational drive as an inspiration for herself, even while she is currently trying to raise funds to purchase a prosthetic leg for him, valued at $891,000.
Meanwhile, COA’s principal Judian Wright said Taylor serves as a living example to the school’s administration and student body as it relates to overcoming challenges which seem insurmountable.
