Zain's Desmoid Tumor Surgery

Hi, my name is Beth Reichard and I am a family friend fundraising for the Oweis family to help with medical and travel expenses for Zain's Desmoid Tumor Surgery. Zain is the youngest son of Amanda Saad Oweis and Khaled Oweis. About 5 months ago, what was meant to be a quick trip to the pediatrician for swollen lymph nodes, turned into five months of tests and scans that resulted in a health diagnosis they had never heard of before. At seven months old, Zain was diagnosed with a Desmoid tumor. The tumor is, thankfully, not cancerous. But unfortunately, the tumor is located in a dangerous location. In Zain's case, his tumor is located in his head and neck. Not only is his tumor rare for his age but it is also rare in its location. Zain completed a round of chemotherapy to hopefully shrink the tumor but unfortunately, the chemo did not work. There has been a 50% growth in the tumor while on chemo. They are now planning to travel to Boston Children's Hospital where the experts are to continue care and have surgery. It is anticipated that even with a great result for surgery, they will not be able to remove the tumor completely. Chemo will likely occur again following surgery. With this rare tumor, there may be lifelong care needed.

For those of you who know Mrs. Oweis, you know she is a talented art teacher, beloved coach and Athletic Director at St. Joseph Catholic School and mother. She gives freely of her time and talent. She and her husband are hard-working parents who take pride in their beautiful family. Only after several requests by me, did they agree to let me start this fundraiser to ease the financial burden they are facing. The medical expenses are great and the amount is unknown. Even with health insurance, they will face out-of-state doctor expenses, travel, airfare, hotel costs, taxi costs, numerous MRIs a year, etc.

Let us come together as a community in our prayers. Please pray for a miracle and complete healing for Zain. Let us also bless them with financial support. Please donate any amount you can to help this young family. No amount is too small. $10, $20, $50, $100 - whatever you can donate will help. Let's ease the stress of the situation by letting them focus on their precious son and not these unexpected expenses. Thank you in advance for your support and prayers.