Team Carly Fundraiser

21-year-old Carly Jo Cannon, daughter of Gene (Geno) and Brenda Cannon, was diagnosed with a rare type of cancer that affects the brain and spinal cord. In March 2013, half-way through her sophomore year at UNL, she faced extreme symptoms resulting in the discovery of an ependymoma tumor within her spinal cord. The news of cancer was shocking, but she was ready to fight and to win. After an unsuccessful surgery to remove the tumor, she was treated with 37 rounds of full spine and brain radiation treatment at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN. She proudly refers to her scar as her “battle wound” and has been working hard in physical therapy to gain strength back in her left leg since her surgery. The combination of surgery and the tumor resulted in nerve damage to her left leg, she is currently unable to walk, but we are all confident she will walk again. Carly continues to receive treatment over frequent extended trips to the Mayo Clinic. Doctors are currently evaluating the possibility of providing Carly with genetically profiled chemotherapy. This is an experimental type of treatment that would be designed specifically for her body and her type of cancer. If this is a go, it will be a much more effective type of treatment, but quite possibly not covered by insurance. Despite the immense medical expense, it would be the very best option for our girl. Team Carly is asking for $20,000 to help with medical expenses so that she can receive the care she needs. Anything is sincerely appreciated as we come together to build strength and support for Carly and her family.