Jasiah Strong

It is difficult to watch your loved ones suffer knowing that there will always be limits to what you can do.
Because of that, it is necessary that I share one of my best friend's and my godson's story!

Last month, Kinder noticed that Jasiah began to walk differently.  Initially, she believed it was due to his new school load because he felt no pain.  This was our boy's first year in middle school.  Kinder immediately purchased a new, more expensive bookbag thinking that it may resolve the issue. Unfortunately, it didn't. One morning while walking to school, Jasiah had to hold on to her to walk.  Something wasn't right so Kinder immediately took him to his pediatrician even though he still felt no pain.  His pediatrician told her to take him to LIJ immediately because it could be attributed to neurological issues or a tumor.  After numerous tests that night, it was determined that there was a tumor in his spine and surgery was required.  After a grueling 10 hour surgery, the doctor informed Kinder that Jasiah had cancer and they were only able to remove 75% from his spine.  The doctors have now diagnosed Jasiah with Astrocytoma which is a form of brain cancer.  Jasiah has a long road ahead of him including physical therapy and radiation but we are not worried because he is in God's hands.  God allowed Kinder to recognize the difference in her child.  God worked through Jasiah's pediatrician by allowing her to recognize the magnitude of what other's may not have acknowledged.  And God placed him at LIJ to start his road to recovery.  Although Jasiah still has a long road ahead of him including physical therapy and radiation, we are not worried because he has been in God's hands from the beginning and will continue to be. 

For those who may not know but I am quite sure you do, Jasiah is the most intelligent, loving, and the sweetest child I know.  As with any child, he would rather be home playing his games without a care.  But this amazing child would also rather be home staying on top of his school work and spending time with his family.  Throughout this situation, his strength has remained unimaginable bypassing that of many adults.

Kinder is also one of the strongest, independent women I know and would never ask for anything which is why it is important that she has an even stronger support system.  Kinder has a full-time and part-time job while also running a non-profit organization.  Kinder also has another child.  She has been stretched so much throughout this process but she has not allowed it to break her.  She has watched her child Jasiah hurt physically and emotionally while trying to remain strong. Kinder has been unable to work both jobs due to the circumstances and will most likely need to take leave from the other one.  Her household bills will not stop and neither will the the necessities required for Jasiah during this time.  I am asking that you donate whatever you can to show her that what she proudly instills in the young ladies through her non-profit organization, I am your sister, Inc. is real.  Guidance and support is necessary to thrive.

We are grateful for any help that you may be able to provide! Please continue to keep this family in your prayers!