Name: Bryce
Diagnosis: Wilms Tumor
Prior to his fight with cancer, Bryce was like any other little boy. He loved to fish, play baseball and ride his four-wheeler. Painting was one of his favorite hobbies, and he loved to eat pizza and drink orange soda.
Bryce was found to have Wilms tumor in August 2006. He received treatment at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital from August 2006 until February 2008. On February 14, 2008, Bryce lost his battle with cancer.
But just days before starting pre-school, Bryce began experiencing severe stomach pains. Two visits to the pediatrician later, scans were ordered of Bryce's abdomen. The scans revealed a tumor in Bryce's left kidney. He and his family immediately turned to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Bryce's mother, Alicia, had grown up participating in Math-A-Thons for St. Jude and she knew the hospital offered Bryce the best chance to beat the cancer.
At St. Jude, Bryce underwent surgery that removed his kidney along with 13 lymph nodes. He received radiation and chemotherapy in the months following the operation. Unfortunately, the cancer returned in June 2007. Bryce began a new treatment plan, but the cancer proved to be a formidable foe.
Despite the efforts of Bryce, his family and the staff of St. Jude, the cancer took his life. Bryce left an indelible mark on the hearts of everyone he met. "He's touched so many lives," said his father, Dean. "His journey has been remarkable."
Shortly before Bryce passed away, his family was given the gift of creating memories with their bright-eyed, smiling boy during two special trips. The first outing was a specially arranged hunting trip for Bryce, his dad and brother. For the second trip, Bryce and his family traveled to Disney World. These family times provided many joyful moments that the family now cherishes, along with many of his precious paintings.
Dean and Alicia are hopeful that Bryce's story will continue to inspire others to support St. Jude so that the hospital can continue its search for a cure for Wilms tumor and the many other cancers that strike children. They hope that one day no family will experience the loss they have endured.
March 2008
