At the age of 16, I was diagnosed with a rare autoimmune disease that attacks and destroys my skeletal muscles. For 12 years, I tried to stop the progression of the disease with different immunosuppressive drug regimens. The therapies either had a transient effect or none what so ever. Last year, having failed essentially all possible regimens, I underwent an experimental autologous bone marrow transplant with the hopes of curing my illness. Indeed, my story has nothing to do with cancer and without a doubt is my story incomparable to that of kids whom have battled or are currently battling cancer. I could never begin to understand what battling cancer is like. However, I can relate to the physical, emotional and mental obstacles that someone has to overcome when fighting an illness, and more importantly I can relate to the hopes and dreams of one day finding a treatment that is permanent in effect or even better a cure! Last year, I shaved my head before my bone marrow transplantation to give myself a sense of empowerment and strength in making it through the transplantation and days/years to follow. However, this year I am shaving my head to stand in solidarity with kids fighting cancer, and more importantly to help raise money to find cures for childhood cancer. The experimental autologous bone marrow transplantation that has given me a chance at remission and a hopeful future filled with a healthier life started with funding and research. And now it is my turn to help in finding a cure for these infants, children, teens and young adults fighting childhood cancer. I am a member of Indian Givers, a non-profit organization consisting of people seeking philanthropic endeavors with the hope that these efforts can make a lasting positive impact to the local community. Together with NetIP, the two organizations are helping me to spread awareness for children’s fight against cancer. Please support these kids by donating to me and my team - Except for funding from the U.S. government, this volunteer-driven charity funds more childhood cancer research grants than any organization. Your gift will give hope to infants, children, teens and young adults fighting childhood cancers. Thank you! Click "Make a donation" to give online, or donate by phone or mail.