Konnar Anderson's battle with cancer

Konnar's diagnosis is stage 4 of a rare form of rhabdomyosarcoma, known as epithelioid and spindle cell rhabdomyosarcoma with FUS-TFCP2 fusion. His primary tumor is in the left side of his pelvis, and the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes in the pelvis, two vertebrae, a small spot on his skull, and a few small nodules in his lungs.

Konnar was diagnosed with cancer just six days after his 18th birthday, on September 8, 2021. He is a senior at Salem High School, in Salem, Indiana. Prior to diagnosis, Konnar was a typical senior looking forward to graduation and college. In addition to being a good student, Konnar spent his time lifting weights and running. Konnar also enjoyed baking and pastry making, which he would always share with friends and family.

Konnar remains in good spirits during this incredibly challenging time and continues to do the things he loves like working out - minus the running, and spending time in the kitchen. He keeps in contact with friends and truly has a heart of gold. Konnar is always thinking of others first. His school marching band recently competed in the state finals, and the night before being admitted for chemotherapy, Konnar was in the kitchen baking chocolate chip cookies from scratch for the band. He also wrote them a very nice letter to wish them well in their performance, since he couldn't attend. On another occasion, just after being released from the hospital, Konnar went home and made from scratch pumpkin spice cupcakes with a fresh maple frosting for his friends who were all attending a Halloween party. While he wasn't able to attend the full party, Konnar was able to deliver his treats and stay for a few minutes to see everyone. The joy he was able to bring to his friends was such a huge reward for this wonderful young man.

With cancer comes lots of appointments, doctors, tests, scans, treatments, and of course expenses. Each chemotherapy treatment is intensive and usually means multiple days in the hospital. Konnar's treatment is expected to last about nine months. We are seeking some help with added expenses including, medical bills, gas for the many trips from Salem to Louisville, meals during treatment, and any other needs that Konnar has during his long road to recovery.

Positive thoughts and prayers are always welcome, to help Konnar in his treatment and recovery. This is a life changing experience for Konnar, and it will undoubtedly be the toughest fight of his life.

Please know how incredibly hard it is for me to ask for anything at all. Konnar and I have always been able to face the challenges of life, and there have been many, but this sort of challenge is never expected and always demands more than we have ever planned for or have available to us. Everyone's support is extremely appreciated and we are grateful to have such great friends and family. Thank you all.