Desmoid Tumor Treatment

I was diagnosed with a Desmoid Tumor in my right lower back/hip area in February this year. In March, the tumor was surgically removed at MD Anderson, but they were unable to get clean margins. The tumor returned within only three months. To have a second surgery means that I won't be able to run again and will even have difficulty walking. I'm an active 34 year old mom with four kids ranging from 21 months to 11 years. The thought of being limited in what I can physically do with my children terrifies me. The alternative treatment is 6-8 weeks of intense radiation. Desmoid tumors are very rare, aggressive, can lead to debilitation, and are therefore treated like cancer. I'm honestly very afraid of the short term, but even more so, the long term side effects of the radiation. Studies show that if it even works, the tumor has a good chance of returning again.

Cancer is such a big business and finding an Oncologist that uses conservative or natural treatments is incredibly difficult. The Desmoid Tumor Research Foundation has a conference September 27-29 in Philadelphia where other patients and the brightest minds in Desmoid Treatment and Research will be present. Unfortunately, I can't afford to go to without financial assistance, but I have such a strong belief that this conference will provide me with treatment options and education that will help me to make the right decision for myself and for my family. I would be incredibly gracious for any amount of donation that would help me get to this conference. The $2,500 would allow my husband to miss work and attend the conference with me without creating a further financial strain on our family. I am a very strong and independent person and asking for help (especially financial) is something that does not come easy for me. I thank you, from the bottom of my heart for considering assisting. God Bless you.

For more information on Desmoid Tumors and The Desmoid Tumor Research Foundation, please visit http://www.dtrf.org/