A Decade of Hope for a Remsen Teen

Ten years ago, life looked very different for one family in Central New York.

At just 13 years old, Anna was facing a rare brain tumor and an uncertain future. There were moments when her family didn’t know if she would survive brain surgery or the intense treatment that followed.

Today, she’s living proof of what hope, advanced medicine, and an incredible community can accomplish.

Anna is now celebrating a milestone many once feared she might never reach — her 10th treatment anniversary this September — and she’s doing it healthy, happy, and thriving thanks to St Jude Children's Research Hospital.

Amazing Updates From the Past Year

The past year has been a big one for Anna, and it’s filled with milestones worth celebrating.

She’s now a proud homeowner, recently celebrated one year at a job she truly enjoys, and continues to live life to the fullest. From hiking mountains to building her future, Anna is doing all the things that once felt impossible.

READ MORE: CNY Teen Beat Cancer — Now He Wants to Help Others

In October, Anna returned to St. Jude for her annual appointment, where her medical team celebrated every milestone she’s reached since treatment began in 2016. "The doctors even joked that she’s doing so well, she makes them look good," Anna's mom Christie said.

As she looks ahead to her 23rd birthday this summer, her continued health is nothing short of a blessing.

Why St. Jude Made All the Difference

Anna’s tumor was extremely rare, and knowing the doctors at St. Jude had far more experience with her diagnosis lifted a huge weight off her family’s shoulders. Even more impactful — they never received a bill for treatment or for their stay during that difficult time.

When you’re facing the unimaginable, that kind of support changes everything.

How You Can Help Other Families

Stories like Anna’s are why we proudly support St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital during our Country Cares Radiothon, presented by Drain Masters.

You can become a St. Jude Partner in Hope and help ensure families never receive a bill for treatment, travel, housing, or food.

Call 800-995-5257 or donate online to St. Jude.

"We are forever grateful to St. Jude and to every single person who donates, especially in our own community."

DONATE ONLINE

Every dollar, every call, and every act of kindness helps write more stories like Anna’s — stories that begin with fear but end with hope.