Hi, my name is Renee Sheremeta. My little sister Shaina was recently diagnosed with an aggressive form of brain cancer called Glioblastoma.  Glioblastoma (GBM), also referred to as a grade IV astrocytoma, is a fast-growing and aggressive brain tumor that occur’s in the brain or spinal cord.  The cause of most cases of glioblastoma is not known.

On 10/10/2021 she began having severe headaches.  This was very rare for Shaina, since she rarely has headaches. She felt so sick that she Ubered herself to the ER at Mease Countryside Hospital.  A CT scan revealed a large mass on the right side of her brain.  The ER physician was concerned enough and recommended she be transported her to Morton Plant Hospital to be seen by a neurologist. The doctors there ordered several MRI’s and blood tests, which revealed the mass to be cancer.  Three days later, a craniotomy was scheduled.  Shaina’s brain surgery showed a cancerous tumor (measuring 5 x 4.2 by 2.8cm) which was to be more advanced than originally thought. The neurosurgeons were able to remove the entire mass and the results from the pathology confirmed it was Glioblastoma, Grade IV Cancer. 

At this time, she is receiving Chemotherapy (7 days a week in pill form) and Radiation ( 5 days a week at Premier Radiation Oncology in Clearwater, FL).  We are hopeful that the treatments will decrease any chances of further growth.  However, despite maximum treatment, research has shown, the cancer usually recurs. She is experiencing extreme fatigue and nausea as a result of these aggressive treatments.  These treatments will last six weeks, then a MRI will be done to determine if any or what growth has occurred during treatment. Should no changes show on the MRI she will have a continuing treatment for six months with chemotherapy pills and optune device, with brain scans every three months. Shaina can't drive and can't work.  Thankfully, our mom is here helping her get to her appointments and taking care of the household duties that she is unable to preform.  

Please pray for Shaina, her partner Rob, and daughters, Sophie (21 years old) and Chloe (15 years old).  They will need all the love and support you can offer moving forward during this difficult time. 

If you know Shaina, she continues to be amazing through all this, remaining positive and strong. She doesn't complain much about her situation, but I know she is in a lot of pain, both physically and emotionally.  

It saddens me beyond belief to say this, but the future is uncertain for her and her family.

As you can imagine, her medical bills and expenses are mounting. Any financial assistance is greatly appreciated, as this would be one less burden she would have to carry.

Thank you to everyone who has reached out with kind words in these difficult times. Thank you to all those that have given, your generosity is so greatly appreciated and we are humbled by your kindness.