This heartrending tale has deeply moved the masses.
Initially, it appeared as if three-year-old Nolan was grappling with a simple case of nasal congestion. However, as time passed without improvement, the situation worsened. Eventually, the devastating news arrived, sending shivers down the spines of parents everywhere: Nolan had been diagnosed with rhabdomyosarcoma, an uncommon and aggressive form of cancer.
For a grueling 18 months, Nolan battled the disease with unwavering strength, courage, and a positive spirit. But in February 2017, the brave little boy succumbed to the disease, leaving this world at the tender age of four, cradled in his mother’s arms.
However, it wasn’t Nolan’s prolonged struggle with cancer that Ruth Scully, his mother, shared in a poignant Facebook post. Her heartfelt narrative vividly recounted the final days of her beloved son’s life. Nolan’s medical team delivered the heart-wrenching news that there was no longer any curative treatment available for the young boy. Their sole mission was to ensure Nolan’s comfort as his health continued to deteriorate. During Ruth Scully’s last visit to the hospital, a profoundly touching moment unfolded between mother and son.
In her Facebook post, Ruth Scully recounted their conversation:
Me: Poot, it hurts to breathe, doesn’t it?
Nolan: Weeeelll… yeah.
Me: You’re in a lot of pain, aren’t you, baby?
Nolan: (looking down) Yeah.
Me: Poot, this cancer stuff sucks. You don’t have to fight anymore.
Nolan: (Pure Happiness) I DONT??!! But I will for you, Mommy!!
Me: No Poot!! Is that what you have been doing?? Fighting for Mommy??
Nolan: Well, DUH!!
Me: Nolan Ray, what is Mommy’s job?
Nolan: To keep me SAFE! (With a big grin)
Me: Honey… I can’t do that anymore here. The only way I can keep you safe is in Heaven. (My heart shattering)
Nolan: Sooooo I’ll just go to Heaven and play until you get there! You’ll come, right?
Me: Absolutely!! You can’t get rid of Mommy that easy!!
Nolan: Thank you, Mommy!!! I’ll go play with Hunter Brylee and Henry!!
In the following days, Nolan dedicated most of his time to slumber. Eventually, his parents made the heartfelt choice to take him home for a final night. While they readied themselves to depart, Nolan grasped his mother’s hand and unselfishly reassured her that it was alright to remain at the hospital. Ruth Scully movingly conveyed on Facebook, “My heroic four-year-old was striving to ensure that I had an easier time.”
He continued with the following account:
At approximately 9:00 p.m., we were in bed watching YouTube (specifically, Peppa Pig). I asked Nolan if I could step into the shower, explaining that I couldn’t leave him alone and that I needed to remain in physical contact with him. He responded, “Ummmm, okay, Mommy. Have Uncle Chris sit with me, and I’ll turn this way so I can see you.” I positioned myself at the bathroom door, turned towards Nolan, and reassured him, saying, “Keep your gaze right here, Poot. I’ll be back in a mere two seconds.”
He responded with a smile. I closed the bathroom door. It was at that precise moment, according to the medical team, that he closed his eyes and entered a profound slumber, marking the onset of his life’s final passage. When I reopened the bathroom door, his medical team encircled his bed, their eyes filled with tears. They explained, “Ruth, he has fallen into a deep sleep. He’s no longer capable of sensing anything.” His breathing had become exceptionally strained, his right lung had collapsed, and his oxygen levels had plummeted.
I hurriedly made my way to his bedside and leaped in, placing my hand gently on the right side of his face. Then, an unforgettable miracle unfolded before me… My precious angel took a breath, his eyes flickered open, a warm smile graced his lips, and he whispered, “I love you, Mommy.” He turned his gaze towards me, and at precisely 11:54 p.m., Sgt. Rollin Nolan Scully peacefully passed away as I softly sang “You are My Sunshine” into his ear.
In his final moments, the young boy mustered the last of his strength to convey his love to his mother. This profoundly moving story has already touched the hearts of millions worldwide and continues to do so.
A Hero’s Farewell
Nolan’s family chose to share his funeral with the countless Facebook supporters who had stood by him throughout his battle. The somber event was broadcast live, featuring a heartfelt farewell from local first responders and law enforcement agencies. “Sgt. Rollin’ Nolan” was honored with deep reverence, as firefighters and police officers took turns in paying their respects to the brave boy. This is a gesture typically reserved for officers who have fallen in the line of duty, but all agreed that Nolan deserved this tribute.
The funeral procession commenced at the Hollywood Volunteer Fire Department. Nolan’s casket was brought outside, where 100 first responders saluted him. Nolan’s casket was then placed on a fire truck, and the courageous little boy was honored with his “End Of Watch” last call.
In September 2022, on what would have been Nolan’s 10th birthday, his mother shared another emotionally charged update. She expressed that this particular birthday hit her harder than previous ones. She wrote, “Maybe it’s the things he’s missed and we’ve missed with him. Maybe it’s the wondering of how life would be if he were still here with me.”
Typically, Nolan’s mom and his siblings try to commemorate his birthday by doing something he would have enjoyed. However, this year, the pain was too much to bear. Instead, she took some of her children to the graveyard. They brought red balloons to his grave, inscribing personal messages before releasing them heavenward.
Never forget to express your love for your mother. If this story has touched your heart, please share it and help spread this message of love and resilience.
Rest in Peace brave young man…
Rest in Peace brave young man…