Ewing Sarcoma: Annabelle’s Story
Children’s Mercy is helping return a fierce competitor to the field
Annabelle is a college freshman at Truman State University who can’t wait to get back out on the soccer field. She committed to play for the Bulldogs before being diagnosed with localized Ewing sarcoma, a bone and soft tissue cancer, during her senior year of high school.
“Sports have taught me a lot about resilience and optimism and courage,” said Annabelle. “I’ve taken that with me into this new fight with cancer.”
Annabelle’s treatment includes chemotherapy and radiation — and overwhelming support from her family, friends and community.
Julia Allyson Hays, MD, Hematology/Oncology/BMT physician, said Annabelle has had a very good response to her cancer care: Her tumor shrunk and was able to be completely removed.
“Her attitude throughout this whole process has been amazing,” said Dr. Hays. “We would love to see Annabelle go on and achieve all the dreams that she has.”
“Something I’ll always remember about my time at Children’s Mercy is the community feel,” said Annabelle. “It’s one big family. You get to know other patients, your nurses and doctors really well ... They definitely bring light to such a dark situation. I know every time I go in there, they are going to treat me with kindness.”
Ewing sarcoma: Alex's story
Despite the life-threatening diagnosis of advanced Ewing sarcoma, Maruska and Jeff Goodwin, Leicester, United Kingdom, were determined to find answers for their 8-year-old son, Alex. At Children’s Mercy, they discovered the expertise Alex needed to not only beat cancer, but to grow stronger day by day.
Ewing sarcoma: Gavin's story
Gavin Beaver has been in the fight of his life since he was 9 years old, battling a rare type of cancer called Ewing sarcoma. With the team from Children’s Mercy in his corner, he has the strength and willpower to continue his fight, exceeding everyone’s expectations.
