This was my oldest son Michael. He passed away from Brain Cancer last August at the age of 23. He was always very healthy and his symptoms came on very suddenly. In late June of 2012 he started having headaches that increased rapidly within a short period of time (approximately 2 weeks ). He was originally misdiagnosed and treated for migraines. Within another week or so we requested a Cat Scan (CT) of his brain and he was immediately sent to the hospital. After undergoing brain surgery the next day it was confirmed he had a Stage 4 Glioblastoma Muliforme Brian Tumor and shortly afterwards started treatment under the care of UCSF Medical Center. He was given approximately 3-18 months to live and that was with treatment. After going through chemo and radiation and all the side effects that come with it, what was left of the tumor that could not be removed with surgery had stabalized for about a year and a half. In June of 2014, just 6 months after treatment was stopped it grew back with a vengeance. Because these tumors become resistant to treatment nothing was keeping the tumor from growing. He suffered from seizures and eventually lost his ability to walk and speak. On August 11, 2015 he passed away surrounded by his family and friends. He fought for three years. He was a true warrior and will be forever an inspiration for his bravery throughout his illness. I’d trade places with him in a heartbeat. My heart will never be the same. But I treasure the time I had with him. He was a good-hearted and wonderful son. ♡
