A Delaware County elementary school teacher battling a rare form of cancer got a powerful show of support from students, colleagues and the Phillies during a surprise celebration at his school on Friday. Scott Messick, a physical education teacher at Boothwyn Elementary School left in mid-March t o undergo treatment for a rare form of appendix cancer and did not expect to return until September. However, the Phillies had another plan. Messick was greeted by a pep rally in his honor. “I was told I was coming in to turn a computer in. So definitely was shocked by this but just seeing the kids is amazing I miss them so much,” Messick said. “It has been tough, the surgery I had they call the mother of all surgeries. And I can tell you, I was not prepared.” The celebration included music, cheering students and a special appearance connected to the Phillies, who named Messick one of their All-Star Teachers. He will be honored on the field before Friday’s Teacher Appreciation Night game. Messick’s colleague Hollie Bragg nominated him for the recognition. “He is a true educator. Caring, kind, innovative, enthusiastic and motivating,” Bragg said. At the pep rally, Messick’s children threw honorary first pitches to the Phillie Phanatic and Phillies ambassador Mickey Morandini. The team also presented Messick with a custom jersey and a commemorative Liberty Bell display featuring his teaching stats. School leaders said the event was meant to show Messick how much he is missed. “We want him to know we support him and we miss him. We need everyone at Boothwyn elementary to bring the energy so he knows we love him,” said principal Stacie Hall. Messick’s wife, Jackie, said the support has meant everything to their family. “They have been absolutely amazing. I always say they are our angels on earth,” she said. While Messick’s health battle continues, he said the outpouring of support has lifted his spirits. “Just regenerates me, gives me some energy,” he said. This story was originally reported for broadcast by NBC Philadelphia. AI tools helped convert the story to a digital article, and an NBC Philadelphia journalist edited the article for publication. ...read more read less