My daughter Nia is a vibrant spirited 24-year-old who has fought and won brain cancer since she was 5 years old. At that age the tumor was in the cerebellum and successfully removed, treated with radiation along with occupational, physical and speech therapy that enabled her to start kindergarten on time.

Nia graduated high school in 2018 and began college in the fall majoring in journalism with a minor in Black Studies at the University of Missouri. In 2020, her sophomore year, she started having headaches. The MRI found a tumor in the left temporal lobe of her brain the size of a large lemon. With successful surgery and radiation, all was good. To stay on course, she enrolled in summer school and returned to school in the fall.

In January 2022 another tumor was found in the left temporal lobe. She then endured a successful surgery and radiation, but her journey did not finish there. She was also diagnosed with Global Aphasia which limits communication. With speech therapy she regained her ability to speak. During her three-month MRI follow-up in July, a new tumor was found in the Water Space of the brain and was treated with a special form of radiation. Nia returned to school and graduated with honors to cross the stage in May of 2023 to receive her degree. Just ten days after graduation another tumor was found in the Occipital Lobe, it was successfully removed and as a result, it caused mild Aphasia with mild short term memory loss. With MRI follow-ups every 3 months they have been clean since June 5, 2024. As of now there are two Ependymoma tumors in the Water Space and both are inoperable, and no options are viable.

As a survivor and continual fighter Nia has always dreamed to experience some of the beauties of this world and use that journalism degree to journal her travels. There will be so many firsts that she may not ever fulfill. Due to all the medical/financial expenses over the years at this time I’m unable to give Nia those travel wishes. Like a trip abroad to Paris, and Australia, or visit Broadway in New York a “Girls Trip”. To help cover air fare, lodging, excursions, and other expenses, I am asking that whatever your heart compels you to donate please do and share this GOFUNDME page so that we can create a few memorable adventures that would forever be appreciated.

With much appreciation and love,

A loving mom