When I look at our 11-year-old son, Bryce, I see so many things that everyone else doesn't see.He is resilient, strong, brave, happy and determined to be like other kids. 

At the age of two years old, he was diagnosed with a brain tumor known as Medulloblastoma. He went through very harsh treatments, including three bone marrow transplants. Every three months, he would get an MRI and just before his two year mark, we found out that he relapsed.

He went through six weeks of proton radiation and countless chemotherapy treatments.This November, it will be five years since his last treatment. It’s a blessing for him to be here…to go from hospice state to now thriving the best Bryce can. This journey has taught us so much throughout these nine years. Don't take life for granted. In an instant, it can change. Be a light to others. These warriors deserve the world. They deserve to grow up and be whatever they want to be.

But like Bryce, they have so many obstacles and challenges to face. They may look fine on the outside; but on the inside, there are so many side effects from these treatments and the disease. Bryce has learning disabilities. He’s on a growth hormone to help him be a more reasonable size. We’re going through food therapy to try and get him to eat on his own and not just rely on his G-tube.  

Bryce will be starting a new journey at the middle school. He’s very excited. But we’re very nervous. We’re hoping he will be accepted by his peers. I remind you to teach kindness and compassion. These warriors deserve so much. All they want to do is fit in and do all the things like their peers. Don’t look away. 

We thank PCFLV for embracing the journey! What you do for the warriors, siblings, and parents is truly amazing! We have a wonderful community, one that is all in this journey together!

Written by Bryce’s mom, Kristen

Please consider helping children with cancer and others in our community by scheduling a blood donation at Miller-Keystone Blood Center: https://donor.giveapint.org/donor/schedules/zip