‘Blessed and enjoying every precious day with my son’

When my son, Nate, was diagnosed with a cancerous brain tumor at just 8 years old, our lives were turned upside down in an instant. 

My husband and I were determined to do whatever it took to save our son, but we understood the devastating impact cancer could have both emotionally and financially. We both had lost our mothers to cancer and knew the full impact a cancer diagnosis can bring. 

Nate was referred to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital® and within 12 hours of his diagnosis of medulloblastoma, we were in Memphis.

Soon after our arrival, a St. Jude social worker eased our minds by telling us, “We are going to take care of you.”  We were told not to worry about the cost of treatment because no family ever receives a bill from St. Jude for treatment, travel, housing or food. 

I sobbed. I physically felt the burden fall off my shoulders. From that point on, we just had to concentrate on Nate. 

St. Jude saved Nate’s life from day one. Within days he had surgery to remove the brain tumor. His treatment also involved chemotherapy and radiation therapy.   

It’s been five years since Nate finished treatment. We recently returned from his annual check-up and he is doing wonderful. 

Nate is 14 years old, about to start high school and is enjoying being an uncle to his 2-year-old niece. He is quick-witted, tenacious and a hard worker. I can’t imagine my life without him, and thanks to God and the incredible care from St. Jude and its supporters who make the hospital’s work possible, I don’t have to. I am blessed and enjoying every precious day with my son.