Remembering Zak D at St. Jude

Zachary John was born on February 11th 1995.  In May 2008 he was diagnosed with a brain tumor called Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma.  Unfortunately, this tumor was located on his brain stem and was inoperable, therefore limiting the treatment that he could receive.  St. Jude opened their arms to Zak and did everything that they could to fight this horrific tumor.  Unfortunately, no matter what they could do, Zak was unable to be cured and passed away surrounded by everyone who loved him on December 26th 2008.  My brother was a hero to many and impacted the lives of anyone who had the chance to be around him.    Although St. Jude was unable to save my brother, we were blessed with those seven and a half months with him. They continue to research this tumor and we hope to find a time where there is a cure.  I am truly thankful for this hospital every single day of my life and chose to become a nurse because of the outstanding love and care my brother and family received (and continue to receive) throughout this nightmare.

This Christmas I want to have a memorial brick at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in memory of my sweet brother Zachary.  The brick I am hoping to get would be 9"x9" and is a $1,500 donation.  I unfortunately cannot afford this alone, so I am asking for anyone who has loved, known or been touched by my brother's story to please help me keep his legacy alive at the incredible hospital.   Although my brother may not physically be around anymore, his memory will forever live on in those who he has touched.  Please help me continue Zak's memory at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.