Dustin Paul Fagan, 28, of Pulaski, went to sleep and woke up in heaven Thursday, June 21, 2012. In heaven, Dustin reunited with his father, Paul, his brother, Bradley, and a host of beloved family members and friends.
Dustin was born Oct. 6, 1983, in Beckley, W.Va. His life is a tribute and testament to everyone he touched and inspired. His courage, as an amazing, strong, brave and kind young man will continue in the hearts of all who knew and met him through the years.
Time Magazine (1996) featured Dustin’s heroic battle with malignant brain cancer and the new procedures became protocol for future patients diagnosed with fatal medulloblastoma, the deadliest childhood cancer. Dustin’s three-year commitment to the aggressive treatment and his remarkable recovery is a tribute to Dr. Henry Friedman and the staff of Duke University. Dustin’s contribution benefitted cancer research and others diagnosed with childhood cancer. New River Valley physicians, especially Dr. Richard Gehrz and the staff at Children’s Choice, insured Dustin continued to thrive.
The family is so extremely thankful for everyone who touched Dustin’s life. He enlightened his family in a multitude of ways and we feel honored to have been blessed by Dustin’s love and charm. We are grateful to God for each day He loaned us His precious child.
Dustin was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Pulaski, where he participated in the youth program and many trips to various parts of the country while working with the Presbyterian Relief Program. As a 21-year survivor of cancer, Dustin participated and enjoyed Relay for Life for many years. In his early years, Dustin attended Pulaski County schools and graduated from Pulaski County High School in 2003.
Dustin is survived by his mother, Jackie Fagan Myal; step-father, John Myal; sister, Jamie Myal, and brother, John Bradley Myal, all of Pulaski; best friend, Hugh “Chip” Huff of Roanoke; many relatives throughout West Virginia, and many friends throughout the United States.
All of the smiles Dustin brought to our lives is a gift and we thank you God for sharing him with us for 28 incredible years.
A service celebrating Dustin’s life will be held at First Presbyterian Church in Pulaski on Sunday, July 15, 2012 at 4 p.m. For more information, please contact Jackie at [email protected]
Drema ODell
July 15, 2012 at 2:03 pm
Dear Mrs. Myal and John,
I had the opportunity to meet Dustin at your home thanks to Joh’s and Levi’s friendship. We talked on two separate occasions while I waited to pick up the boys.
We, as a whole family, think so much of John!!!
OUr thoughts, prayers and deepest sympathies are with you all.
Nicole Papsidero
July 21, 2012 at 10:00 am
I was sadden to hear about Dustin’s passing. We were in Mrs. Farris’s 5th grade class at Critzer Elementary. I can remember he always had a smile on his face, even on the not so good days. He is a true angel now. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Nicole Papsidero