Joseph’s Journey with Stage-4 Terminal Cancer

My nephew Joseph was diagnosed with osteosarcoma when he was 13 years old. He went through 10 months of chemo and had to have his leg amputated. He made a miraculous recovery and, within 2 1/2 years, was on his high school swim team, with a 4.6 GPA.

Last year, the doctors discovered the cancer was back in his lungs. He had two operations to remove the tumors, and was on a medical trial that was unsuccessful.  He is now 17 years old and the doctors have discovered the cancer has spread to his lymph nodes, lungs, and hip bone.

My sister has four children. She works 12 hour night shifts as a nurse in order to pay for her families insurance. Joseph is starting chemo this week in hopes of extending his life.

When my sister asked him what he wanted to do this year, Joseph told her that he just wants to live. He wants to get an engineering degree, serve a mission, get married, and have children. He is a remarkable young man and my sister and her family have never asked for anything during this long fight with childhood cancer.

They have been battling cancer for 4 years and have dozens and dozens of friends who have wanted to help in some way. This is the easiest way to show support. 

All of the money raised will go towards Joseph’s medical bills and, God willing, to create some positive experiences that he can enjoy with his friends and family. No amount is too small.