Last night, president of the Pounding For Parker Foundation, Allison Cowherd, and Jon Cowherd proudly presented Dr Chad Jacobsen and Dr David Gass of the Levine Children’s Hospital Neuro-oncology Clinic $100,000 to help fund the brain tumor survivorship clinic.
“A child’s battle with cancer doesn’t stop once the disease enters remission or is stabilized. Parker’s chemotherapy treatments may have come to an end for now, but in many ways the journey is just beginning. ” says Allison.
Allison says “I remember sitting in the Levine’s clinic room, while Dr. Jacobsen shared a list of potential side effects for the chemotherapy that Parker was about to begin. The list was overwhelming – we knew it was what Parker needed to help stabilize and stop the growth of his tumor – but I was also hesitant to sign my name on a form that listed secondary cancers, infertility, and heart problems as some of the potential side effects.”
The funds from the Pounding For Parker Foundation will focus on survivor wellness and addressing the potential late-effects of chemotherapy. The $100,000 grant will also specifically fund a new staff position to assist with monitoring any abnormal signs, making referrals to other physicians, and family counseling.
“The Pounding For Parker Foundation’s generous gift will ensure that area children and their families will soon be able to receive more one-on-one counsel, guidance, and support while dealing with this devastating disease.” Eugene Woods, president and CEO Atrium Health.
“The list of side effects and life-threatening diseases that are caused by the very treatment used to help children is daunting. We will continue to advocate for children like Parker, our Foundation is only just getting started; we will build on the tremendous community support we have received and hope to help kids all across the country.” says Jon Cowherd
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