Newcombs continue the fight

Mike and Kaye Newcomb have ample cause to feel cursed.

Instead, they count their blessings, with loving daughter Kelsey, a Dinwiddie High School freshman track star, high atop the list.

With their devastating, debilitating illnesses, the Newcombs could pout and complain, making strangers feel awkward and uncomfortable.

Instead, they greet an outsider with warm welcomes, glowing faces and easy laughter. If you're looking to crash a pity party, the Newcombs suggest going down the road to find one.

They'd much prefer concentrating on what is so wonderful in their lives, mainly their record-setting younger daughter.

Still a track neophyte, Kelsey has set the Dinwiddie 1,600 meter (5:34) and 1,000 (3:10.1) marks. She will race this weekend at the Ashe Center in the Central Region meet.

Kelsey's horizon glows like a blowtorch. That's what her ill parents cling to.

"She inspires us to get up in the morning and not just lay in bed," Mike said.

Keeping the faith: A former four-sport athlete at Blackstone High and popular softball umpire known as "Ump No. 1," Mike suffers from acute lymphocyte leukemia.

"I've stopped taking the medicine - it's not worth the money anymore," he said of endless chemotherapy. "Doctor says June will be about it."

Quickly, he shifts gears and emotions. Removing his cap, he reveals a full head of dark hair.

"I had gray hair that all fell out during my last chemo," he said. "Then, it all grew back . . . black. Can you believe that?"

Special Kaye: In 1973, then Kaye Underhill won the Group AAA 880 yard run in 2:23.6. Then, she hustled back to Dinwiddie to play a softball game.

In brighter days, she was a standout for the legendary Virginia Belles juggernaut softball team.

Kaye now suffers from Parkinson's, a degenerative disorder that attacks the central nervous system. The disease has robbed her of most of her mobility, even her speech.

Fast feet: Kelsey weighs just 108 pounds, but scales don't calculate what weighs heavy on her mind.

"I think about my parents when I run," she said. "I've had to grow up in a hurry."

Kelsey loves singing, and country star Taylor Swift is her idol. Swift's hits include "Teardrops on my Guitar," "Our Song" and "Love Story."

Taking precautions, Mike and Kaye already have designated their dearest friends, Liz and John Slate, as Kelsey's future guardians.

Still, there's a silver lining here that is uplifting.

You discover this family has made a deal, and it's the real deal.

Mike said, "I keep Kaye going. She keeps me going, and Kelsey keeps us both going."