Hi, my name is Stacey Lewis and I’m starting this Go Fund Me for my nephew, Bennett Lewis. Bennett is Brad’s brother Matt’s, youngest son. Matt, Tara, Avery, Jackson and Bennett live in Ankeny, Iowa. Bennett is 11 years old and currently attends Ashland Ridge Elementary and will attend Prairie Ridge next year. 

 

Bennett’s story: Bennett was diagnosed with osteosarcoma in his femur and knee on May 13th at the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital in Iowa City.He had had some knee pain for a few months which was thought to be just normal aches and pains that very active kids have from time to time. A couple of weeks ago, Bennett developed a limp and went to his pediatrician for an evaluation. They took an X-ray where cancer was suspected. It was confirmed with a biopsy at the U of I hospital. He had a port placed after diagnosis was confirmed that will be used for chemotherapy.

 

Bennett will begin chemotherapy this Wednesday at Blank Children’s Hospital in Des Moines. With every treatment, he will spend 3-4 days in the hospital. He will receive chemo until he has surgery in August to replace the lower part of his femur and knee at the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital. The chemo is used to contain the cancer until the artificial bone is made in England. After he recovers from surgery, he will receive another 6 months of chemo. They are expecting this will last approximately one year. He will spend 1/3 of the next year in the hospital for chemo plus additional time for his surgery.

 

We received great news last week when a PET scan revealed that the cancer has not spread. He is still in for a very long and hard year. Matt is the Men’s Golf Coach at Drake University and travels frequently with his team for tournaments. Because of this, Tara will not be able to work so she can be Bennett’s full time care giver. We are asking for your donations to help cover Tara’s lost wages and medical bills.

 

Matt & Tara frequently help other families when they are in need and now it’s our turn to show them how amazing and loved their family is!

 

Thanks in advance for anything you are able to contribute ❤️ #TeamLewis