Christmas Morning 2020, out of nowhere, I suffered debilitating status epilepticus (SE) - Multiple seizures lasting longer than five minutes without recovery in between. I was intubated, rushed via EMS to our local hospital in Matthews, NC where I continued to have these occurrences.  I was then sent by way of critical transport to Presbyterian Main in Charlotte.  In a coma for days, I was a goner for all intents and purposes, my wife Carin was read last rites and asked to get our affairs in order.  Covid rampant, my father nor our daughter could visit. It was a terrible time in our lives for both of us, particularly for Carin, Sam, my family and friends.

Days later, I awoke from the coma to the surprise of the medical staff. After PET scans and MRI’s Doctors were still unsure of what was taking place (could have been stroke or something other).  Ultimately, a diagnosis of Grade III Anaplastic Astrocytoma (AA3), a rare, aggressive, malignant and incurable brain tumor which accounts for about 1-2% of all primary brain tumors was rendered.  To put in perspective, an estimated 1,600 new cases were diagnosed last year in the United States.

As of now, the cancer is stable/remission.  I'm feeling great (less the chemo) and wanting to do my part to contribute and to raise awareness, so I am joining the fight against brain cancer by participating in Head for the Cure NC Triangle on February 27th, 2022.  Head for the Cure is dedicated to raising funds and awareness for brain cancer research.

Each year, over 84,000 people in the US are diagnosed with a primary or metastatic brain tumors. More than 120 types of brain tumors exist, making effective treatment complicated. Cutting edge research is needed as we continue to make strides in this fight.

Head for the Cure works to inspire hope for the community of brain cancer patients, their families, friends, caregivers, and other supporters, while celebrating their courage, spirit and energy. Every Head for the Cure event marks a day of celebration where those diagnosed with brain cancer are honored and celebrated by their friends and families, those who have lost their battles are remembered, and we are all inspired to carry on the fight. 

Funds raised by Head for the Cure support the Brain Tumor Trials Collaborative, a network of medical centers with the expertise and the desire to participate in state-of-the-art clinical trials investigating new treatments for malignant brain tumors.

Will you please consider donating today to help me reach my goal and to help Head for the Cure defeat brain cancer? No amount is too small, and all donations are greatly appreciated!

Thank you for visiting my personal page and helping me to reach my fundraising goal!