Jordyn "Azzy" Powell

Thursday, July 21, 2022 will forever be the day that changed the lives of the Powell family in a way that no family should ever experience. On this day, it was discovered that Jordyn “Azzy” Powell, Jordan’s daughter, had a brain tumor. In an instant, Azzy, the best big sister her brothers could ask for and the girl whose presence alone radiates joy, was haulted by cancer. This dreaded and unfair diagnosis instantly changed her life's narrative in a way that no one could imagine nor any family could bear.

Following a biopsy, the family learned the tumor was diagnosed as Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG). This inoperable and incurable cancerous tumor is found in a part of the brainstem called the pons, which controls essential bodily functions needed to survive (heartbeat, breathing, vision, balance, etc.). DIPG is an extremely aggressive form of cancer and almost exclusively affects children ages five to ten. 200-400 children are diagnosed each year, and the median survival time is 9 months from diagnosis.

Though Azzy resides mainly in Tucson, AZ, with her dad Jordan, she spends her summers and holidays with her mom, Ceny and bonus dad, Chris, in Atlanta, GA. The tumor was discovered in Atlanta, which is where she is receiving medical care and where Azzy will likely remain throughout this journey. Jordan has relocated to Atlanta indefinitely, and the rest of the Powell Family has essentially made Atlanta their home base while balancing their lives in Tucson.

All of the Powells are so grateful for each moment they are able to spend with Azzy, and her parents have not left her side. Unfortunately, Azzy has faced multiple complications thus far, prolonging her hospital stay and delaying treatment. The family is hopeful that Azzy will be able to begin treatment soon, but there are still obstacles she must overcome before that is possible.

Needless to say the family is devastated and in shock as these tumors are known for coming on fast and furious. When Azzy left Tucson in early June, there were no signs or symptoms of this whatsoever.

The period of time the family will be shuffling between Tucson and Atlanta is unknown. Still, we pray that Azzy and the entire village that loves and supports her and her family will find comfort and peace during this difficult time. The Powells are eternally grateful for the outpouring of love and support and ask for your continued prayers for their precious Azzy.

Please consider supporting Jordan and his family as they navigate this challenging journey.