I'm shaving my head with St. Baldrick's to raise money and help conquer kids' cancers! This will be my third year to 'rock the bald' for this cause, but this year definitely means more to me than any of the others. The reason I say that is because I'm proud to be able to do it in honor of someone very special. As a proud #girldad to my own three daughters, I have more than just a little soft spot in my heart for this one. If you aren't familiar with Addi and the journey she's been on during the few short years she's walked this earth so far, I suggest you take a second to do so. The strength she's shown in all that she's had to endure, coupled with the resilient faith of the family that surrounds her is more than enough to inspire just about anyone.
In August of 2018, Addi was diagnosed stage 4 Neuroblastoma. She underwent 7 rounds of chemo, tumor resection where her kidney was also removed, 2 rounds of immunotherapy and 12 rounds of radiation. During treatment Addi went into acute Liver Failure and was in critical condition for weeks. Since treatment, Addi's scans have continued to come back showing 'no evidence of disease', but if left unmaintained there was a high likelihood of the disease returning. Due to the liver damage however, she is unable to receive the normal protocol treatment plan for Neuroblastoma (2 stem cell transplants and 6 months of immunotherapy) so the doctor recommended a trial study at Sloan Memorial Kettering in New York due to the lack of side effects that harm the liver. Addi and her family have been traveling to New York from Georgia for the last several months, where they stay for 7-10 days for each treatment. The goal being rid her body of this disease for GOOD!
Her story is just one more reason why I feel it's so important to continue to support research for new ways to treat the types of cancers that effect children like her. If you feel the same way, take just another second and contribute. Even $5 makes a difference when we can come together for a cause. And for those that feel compelled, I encourage you to 'follow' Addi's Journey on Facebook and share some words of encouragement, offer your support, and most of all keep Addi in your prayers as she continues this difficult fight.
Every 2 minutes a child is diagnosed with cancer worldwide, and 1 in 5 of those in the U.S. will not survive. I refuse to accept this reality, so I’ve decided to fundraise for lifesaving research to find cures and better treatments for kids.
Now I need your support! Your donation can fund research to help kids survive and thrive. Join me today and let’s #DFYchildhoodCancers together.
