In what felt like the blink of an eye, Damien’s entire world changed. What was first believed to be a broken knee turned into the unimaginable. After an MRI, doctors discovered a tumor in his femur. Within days, Damien underwent multiple MRIs, a chest CT, a biopsy, countless appointments, and an overwhelming series of tests. While his family is incredibly grateful that the cancer has not spread to his lungs or elsewhere in his leg, the biopsy confirmed every family’s worst fear: osteosarcoma, a rare and aggressive bone cancer. He will be getting a port put in and start chemotherapy treatments 7/20

Damien is a 16-year-old boy who attends Horseheads High School, he is very active in Boy Scouts and marching band, he enjoys camping and being outdoors. Instead of enjoying the normal teenage things and sharing moments with classmates and friends, he will be battling this and all the unknowns this next year. As a friend, I’ve seen his wonderful family rally around him, trying to explain things and prepare their son for the unknowns and possible outcomes, tapping into their inner strength and doing something as parents you never imagine having to do. His parents have had to completely shift their mindsets and lives while also caring for two other children, Gavin and Rosslyn. Their daughter is also living with Type 1 Diabetes and needs regular monitoring for her health and safety, and their mom Beth is self-employed as a hair stylist, which makes regular travel of at least two hours or more back and forth to the hospital for treatments even more challenging.

Damien’s family is part of Big Flats Boy Scout Troop 87, his parents Ryan and Beth Dick are scout leaders and they are always the first to jump in and help other families in need. Now, it’s their turn to be on the receiving end and be supported by those surrounding them. Medical expenses, travel to Rochester, fertility preservation costs not covered by insurance, lost work, and everyday living expenses are adding up quickly. If you’re able, please consider donating to help ease the financial stress so Damien and his family can focus on what matters most, his healing. If you’re unable to give, sharing this fundraiser and keeping Damien in your thoughts and prayers means more than words can express. Thank you for standing with Damien and his family as they face this challenging journey.