Childhood brain tumors in the United States, though rare, remain a significant concern.
They are the most common type of solid tumor in children in the United States, affecting thousands of young patients annually. These tumors can vary widely in their severity, location, and response to treatment, making them a complex medical challenge.
The challenges such families face are multifaceted, including emotional distress, financial burdens from costly treatments, and navigating complex healthcare systems.
Access to specialized care is often limited, and the long-term effects of treatment can result in developmental and cognitive issues, further complicating a child’s recovery and quality of life. Support networks and resources are crucial for helping families manage these challenges.
Nevertheless, one local child living with a brain tumor is making the best of his situation and finding joy in giving back to his community.
Here’s some of what NBC 5 DFW reported on the brave kid:
Side by side and stitch by stitch, 7-year-old Kashton and his mom, Breelyn Zimmer, sit at a sewing machine in their Rowlett kitchen.
The mother and son are sewing small bandanas. But more importantly, they’re crafting moments of joy in an otherwise incredibly tough time.
“Anxiety is a huge part of my daily life, just always worrying about him and worrying if he’ll have a seizure at school or if he’s not feeling well,” said Zimmer.
Zimmer said it was Jan. 26 when she first rushed Kashton to the hospital after she found him unresponsive in his bed. Doctors determined he’d had a seizure caused by a tumor on his brain.
“It’s the worst news you could ever hear; it’s the most shocking news you could ever hear as a parent,” said Zimmer.
Amid months of scans, pokes, and prods, Kashton has managed to lighten the mood, finding reasons to smile amid countless challenges.