I'm joining the St. Jude Walk during Childhood Cancer Awareness Month this September as a childhood cancer survivor, and as someone who knows how much hope, care, research, and community support can mean to a family facing the unthinkable.
In April 1991, when I was 7 years old, I was diagnosed with Ewing's sarcoma, a malignant tumor near my spine. I spent a year and a half in and out of Children's Hospital in Seattle, went through a year of chemotherapy, three months of radiation, and multiple surgeries, including the removal of a grapefruit-sized tumor from my body. I was announced cancer-free in 1993.
I won my battle, but the fight is still active for so many children and families. That is why my team name is Team Chris: Still Here, Still Fighting.
I am still here for a reason, and this walk is one way I can use my story to help kids who are in the middle of their own fight right now. By participating in the St. Jude Walk, I am helping support the lifesaving work of St. Jude Children's Research Hospital as they work to cure childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases.
Because of generous donors, families never receive a bill from St. Jude for treatment, travel, housing, or food, so they can focus on helping their child live.
Can I count on your donation to help me reach my goal?
Thank you for supporting me, my story, and the kids and families of St. Jude. Every step matters. Every donation helps. And every child deserves the chance to grow up, survive, and keep fighting forward.