By LEONARD GRAY

One may think in the 31 years since I started in my profession that I would become blase’ and carry a seen-it-all attitude. This is not so, since I’m continually reminded of the astonishing things people do and say, whether the beat is politics or the police news.

Such a case where I continue to be surprised is with Justin Dufrene of Luling.

Back on Aug. 4, this young man was attending a party. Before the evening ended, according to witnesses, he was beaten and kicked to within an inch of his life.

In the past year, I’ve kept tabs on Justin and his family, recording his progress and always amazed at how far he has come.

Justin sustained a split skull with massive brain injury. He was placed into a coma to reduce swelling and, on an hourly basis, I expected to get word that he had succumbed to his injuries.

“We are doing heroic things to try and save his life,” one surgeon told his aunt, Liz Dufrene of Luling.

Then he contracted pneumonia. At this point, I had virtually abandoned hope. He was still in a coma, still with massive injuries, and it was not known to what he would awaken, if indeed, he awakened at all.

He came back. Not only has brain damage been minimal, he’s planning to start college in a few weeks, a year late but still in pursuit of his dreams of starting his own business after he earns his degree.

Justin is a little bit slower, physically. However, his appreciation for life and family has taken a quantum leap. From being at death’s door a year ago, this young man continues to astonish everyone who knows the story.

In my years as a reporter, I’ve seen many amazing things. However, when I see Justin’s smile, I realize I’m looking directly at a miracle.

What else could explain it?

LEONARD GRAY is assistant managing editor of L’Observateur. He may be reached at (985) 652-9545.