Helping the Renna Family

Five years ago, Old Forge senior Anthony Renna had his first seizure. Because he had experienced several more seizures with no apparent triggers, he was referred to Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia. He still remains undiagnosed after four surgeries that removed his entire right temporal lobe and pieces of his frontal, occipital, and parietal lobes, totaling 1/3 of his brain. His doctors assume that this was caused by a viral infection that has targeted his brain. Pieces of his brain tissue have been transported to other hospitals around the country in an attempt to research the cause of his medical condition. Anthony has enrolled voluntarily in a longitudinal study at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital to help find a cure. "It's given me a better outlook on life," Anthony said, and when asked what he would say to others experiencing a similar situation, he responded, "Just push through it; it will get better." Diana, Anthony's mother, has left her job to be able to take Anthony back and forth between medical appointments. Please consider donating, as it will be used to help defray the travel and other medical expenses that the Renna family is facing. Your contribution will be greatly appreciated. Thank you for your generosity!