In 2019, James was diagnosed with Osteosarcoma, an aggressive form of bone cancer that primarily affects children, teens, and young adults. As a nationally ranked soccer goalie, he had to hang up his cleats and began treatment for the malignant tumor in his knee at the age of 17. He received some of the most aggressive forms of chemotherapy as well as drastic limb-saving surgery (see x-ray below.) We were thrilled when only 9 months later he was declared clear and in remission. James has spent his last almost four years in remission enjoying his studies at Florida Atlantic University, celebrating his 21st birthday, attending concerts with friends, joining a fraternity, spending quality time with family, and has simply tried to live the next chapter of his life to the fullest since his traumatic bout with cancer. Recently, our family got the devastating and horrifying news that confirmed cancer has returned in his lungs. As of now, his surgeon, pulmonogist, and oncologist have confirmed that he has four malignant growths between both of his lungs that will require an intensive treatment plan. While we are not sure what the entire treatment plan is at this time, there will be multiple surgeries involved and we are in the application process of various clinical trials across the US. There is a possibility for local clinical trials in Orlando or Tampa but we do not want to rule out any potential treatment plan that would prevent James from receiving the best care possible - some of the best include hospitals in Ohio, Texas, New York, and Massachusetts. To have to face a life-changing diagnosis twice under the age of 22 is a reality James and our family are having a difficult time accepting. The burden of cancer is not only a physical and emotional one but a financial one as well. Aside from the obscene costs of treatments, there are many costs associated outside to ensure a family can focus their undivided attention on providing James is as comfortable as possible. On top of the responsibility of another round of treatment, our family is still recovering from the costly and aggressive treatment James received during his initial diagnosis. As a sister, James is my world. It breaks every part of my beating heart to see the incredible, brilliant, and hilarious young man I grew up with face something twice that many do not face once in a lifetime. Hearing that his cancer has returned has fractured whatever semblance of hope our family has been living on for these past few years and it has been more difficult to accept than the first diagnosis. We are so appreciative of the outpouring of love and care we have already received… but this is just the beginning of another arduous journey for James. We would be grateful for any assistance you can give - financially, spiritually, or emotionally. Thank you in advance for your support, love, and prayers for our James and family.
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