Aidan's Battle with Bone Cancer

Aidan Moore is a bright 18-year-old who recently lost function in his legs, bladder, and bowel due to a compression fracture of L3. The compression fracture was caused by an aggressive tumor that decided to take up residence in that space. On March 22, Aidan underwent surgery to remove the mass, rebuild the vertebrae and fuse the lumbar spine. After a week in the ICU, Aidan was discharged to an inpatient rehabilitation facility where he is relearning how to walk and use the bathroom. The doctors estimate Aidan will need three weeks of inpatient rehab followed by an unknown period of outpatient rehab.

On March 30, the pathology report finally came back on the tumor. We learned that Aidan has a rare type of bone cancer called Ewing Sarcoma. We do not yet know the extent of Aidan's cancer as we await a PET scan. What the PET scan reveals will inform the stage, treatment, and prognosis of Aidan's cancer.

Aidan has a long road ahead of him as he needs to get stronger before he can begin treatment to beat this awful disease. He is showing remarkable spirit and determination in rehab and has been able to get on his feet using a walker and take some steps. He is growing stronger every day and never backs down from a challenge given him by his rehabilitation team. Once he completes rehab, he will begin cancer treatment, which is often aggressive and utilizes a combination of chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery.

Having survived a rare cancer myself only ten years ago, I know how miserable it is to be away from home and how sick chemo and radiation can make you feel. I would give anything for my child not to have to go through this. Sadly, I cannot bear this burden for him, but I can be with him every step of the way. I believe Aidan will prevail in this battle, but it will not be easily won. He has a strong, fighting spirit and a lot of loving and supportive family and friends to lean on, and we will do anything in our power to help him in this journey.

I will admit I feel awkward setting up this donation account, but I was encouraged by my family to do so. I know from experience how financially burdensome cancer treatment is, so I humbly agreed to do this. I want you to know that I harbor zero expectations. That said, if you feel led to contribute financially to Aidan's battle, your contribution is greatly appreciated. Any funds raised will be used to pay Aidan's medical bills and help cover the cost of his father and I staying with him until we can take him home. We appreciate your support of our brave and amazing young man.

Gratefully,

Joe & Amber Moore