Help Me Overcome Cancer

Hey everyone, My name is Shawn W. Neely (20), a student-athlete majoring in Digital Media at Delta State University and a Bahamian National Swimmer. I am writing this message with a mixture of hope and vulnerability. In July of 2022, I was diagnosed with a very rare cancer called Metastatic Paratesticular Rhabdomyosarcoma Cancer. After a 4 month battle, I finally had surgery to remove the cancerous tumor but unfortunately losing one of my testicles in the process after a successful surgery, I was eventually cleared of all cancer. However, life had other plans for me. Almost a year later, I began experiencing severe pain in my abdomen and had to be hospitalized. In the beginning, I was told that I have a 6-inch mass growing and I was eventually informed that my cancer had returned but migrated to my right abdominal area. It has been a challenging journey, to say the least. As an international student from the Bahamas, I came to the United States on a swimming scholarship, eager to pursue my dreams while representing my home country on the international stage. Little did I know that cancer would throw unexpected obstacles in my way, halting me from chasing my dreams and aspirations. During my treatment, I was notified that my University’s health insurance will not cover my medical expenses because my condition is pre-existing. All funds raised through this GoFundMe campaign will be used to alleviate the mounting hospital bills that have accumulated as a result of my recurrence. These expenses can include chemotherapy, radiation, surgery, medications, lab tests, and consultations with specialists. By contributing to this campaign, you will provide me the opportunity with the financial support I desperately need to continue fighting this rare cancer without the constant worry of crippling medical debt. Thank you from the depths of my heart for standing by me in this battle against cancer. Your generosity and belief in me give me strength, hope, and the determination to keep fighting so I can have to ability to dive into a pool again. With sincere gratitude, Shawn W. Neely