In September 2017 my brother, who is only 15 months younger than me, was diagnosed with a cancerous brain tumor and had to undergo emergency surgery and 30 rounds of radiation. When I received the news, I was terrified. Hearing the words “cancer” literally brought me to my knees. How could my active, athletic and healthy brother possibly have cancer? He is not sick. What could have caused this, and is he going to die were just a few of the questions that raced through my mind. All the other daily issues in our lives suddenly became insignificant. My focus and the focus of my family became and continues to be united towards getting my brother the best medical care. We were able to do this because my parents were blessed to have medical insurance, flexible employers, reliable transportation and a network of supportive family and friends. Sadly, not every teen and their families will be as fortunate but we want them to know that help is WITH-N-REACH.
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
Isaiah 41:10
