KeeLand Strong!

Hello, my name is Ms. Davis, and I am a counselor at W.E.B. DuBois Academy. Our hearts have been truly impacted by our Young Lion, KeeLand Sanders. In our brief time with KeeLand, we gained a true appreciation for his positive spirit, eagerness to belong and his beautiful smile! We are very hopeful for his recovery through this difficult time. Fortunately, we have been able to maintain a great relationship with his mom, Shania.

In the span of 4 months, KeeLand's world has been turned upside down. After having severe headaches, KeeLand's mom scheduled a doctor's appointment. The news was less than desirable, finding a tumor on the left side of his face that was pushing up to his brain. The original diagnosis was Rhabdomyosarcoma, but as time passed, the cancer spread to his brain and spinal fluid. Sadly, he developed another cancer called Leptomeningeal disease and it is stage 4.

For months, this sweet young man underwent chemotherapy and radiation, depleting his energy every time. After a few months, the doctors stopped radiation and informed his mom there was no other treatment for KeeLand. Mom was devastated! His three siblings were heartbroken and confused about their brother.

Mom is a warrior and very prideful. She is lost for words for her baby. As of last week, he was placed on a ventilator and unable to communicate. She has exhausted her funds, unable to work because she stays at the hospital, and is being displaced from her home due to uninhabitable conditions. She specifically stated, "I've never had to ask for help!" My God!

UPDATE:

With a saddened and broken heart I wanted to announce that KeeLand transitioned on September 8th. He is no longer in pain and is able to get his rest. Unfortunately, his family is in tremendous pain and his mother needs our support more than ever! Funeral arrangements have been made, but we know that a financial burden comes with that. This page was created to offer an opportunity to bless this special family during the most difficult times! Please find it in your heart to give!