\"More Than Two\" Cancer Campaign
On March 7, 2012, during a routine check-up, my family and I were informed that my 7-year-old brother, Semaj, was diagnosed with Diffuse Pontine Glioma (tumor in brainstem). While undergoing a series of tests and scans, our family anxiously stood by, waiting for clarity on what this would mean for the sweet, effervescent child we all love so much.
After a day of waiting for answers, the doctors informed the family that due to the location, the tumor is inoperable. They continued in saying that radiation therapy will not treat his cancer but will only help control his symptoms. In other words, they\'ve reported that there is nothing they can do, and they\'ve declared that he would have, at best, 2 years to live.
The \"More Than Two\" Cancer Treatment Campaign serves to help my family pay for expensive cancer treatments and medical bills for Semaj. He\'s had a chest implant placed for radiation therapy already, and will need to undergo radiation treatments daily and chemo on the weekends. Semaj must also have speech and physical therapy 5 days a week.
Currently, Semaj is at the Phoenix Children\'s Hospital in Phoenix, Arizona, where he\'ll be for the next two months undergoing his treatments. Semaj\'s case will be reviewed by the Pediatric Cancer Research Team at their annual conference, where top surgeons and doctors in the field will get together to evaluate and discuss his condition.
Although the doctors\' reports are indicating that Semaj\'s life will be limited, our family is faithful and hopeful, and we do believe in miracles. We know that the road will not be easy, but with support, encouragement, and prayers, Semaj will make it many \"MORE THAN TWO\" years!
