2008 Humor to Fight the Tumor Event

2008 Honorees

	Will Canan (age 10) In March, 2004, at age 6, Will was diagnosed with medulloblastoma, a malignant brain tumor. He has courageously endured multiple surgeries and chemotherapy, six weeks of radiation, and intensive rehabilitation to fully regain the use of his left arm and leg during his four-year battle, including two recurrences. Despite all of this, Will continues to persevere and is an inspiration to all. Will keeps doing well in school, plays summer baseball, and recently won 4th grade division in a golf benefit! All who know Will attribute Will's easy-going nature, sense of humor, ceaseless gratitude, and appreciative attitude for providing success in this journey.
	Aubrey King (age 6 ) In May of 2005, at the age of 3 ½, Aubrey King was diagnosed with a grade 1 invasive brainstem juvenile pilocytic astrocytoma (JPA). Surgeons were able to remove approximately half of her tumor, but the portion that remains is inoperable. During the past three years she has endured five surgeries, 15 hour-long MRI’s, 42 chemotherapy treatments, and many hours of rehabilitative therapy. Yet, we can count on one hand the number of times she has shed a tear over a medical procedure. Aubrey plays soccer, ice skates, swims, dances, takes piano lessons – nothing slows her down. She is the very best big sister, cousin, friend and daughter that anyone could ask for. Aubrey is a perfect example of someone who chooses to LIVE with a brain tumor. “Children's talent to endure stems from their ignorance of alternatives.” Maya Angelou
	Gregg Schreiner (age 38) In July 2002 I was diagnosed at age 32 with a grade II oligodendroglioma in my left temporal lobe. I had surgery and approximately 80% of the tumor was removed. Further surgery in that area could greatly impact my memory and a major artery. Although my tumor has remained stable in growth for these past six years, I have many side effects. I had my first seizure one month after surgery and since then I've experienced anywhere from one to ten seizures a day. In 2006 I had surgery to install a Vagus Nerve Stimulator (VNS), but it has not been effective in helping the seizures. I also take numerous medications, up to thirty pills a day, each having their own side effects. I'm not a good candidate for chemotherapy, radiation or other known medical treatments. I continue to work in a corporate position, manage a home on my own, garden, exercise, play guitar, take care of my dog, and find strength through friends and family.
	Charlotte Streed (November 1, 1945- June 6, 2007) After widely spread and very different symptoms over a three month period in the spring of 1999, Charlotte was diagnosed with a Glioblastoma Multiforme tumor. Surgery followed in July1999, supplanted by chemotherapy, radiation, and additional chemotherapy. She worked hard physically and mentally to regain her former abilities and initially hoped to return to teaching. Many of her former students have said that she was the favorite of all the teachers they ever had. The former spunk was gradually replaced by a sweet and quiet spirit and equally sweet smile. Though the tumor never recurred after the first year and a half, the effects of the treatments continually weakened her so that she went home to be with the Lord whom she so faithfully served in June of last year.

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