Meet Cathrine

In Sept 2014, while studying for my Chemistry final in my dorm room I had a seizure and ended up in the hospital. I was so grateful I was not studying alone that night and my friends knew exactly what to do. I woke up in a hospital. The doctor diagnosed me with Oligoastrocytoma which causes seizures. After 2 brain surgeries I was told they removed all the cancer cells they could see and there was no guarantee the tumor will not come back. I was thankful to be alive so I started eating healthy and went back to studying to be a teacher, which is my dream.

Two years later I was told the tumor was back and January 12, 2017 I had my third brain surgery. This has been very difficult for my family and I to understand. Why is this happening to me? We have no family history of cancer. It makes me think I have done something wrong to make this happen.

Due to the aggressiveness of this cancer the doctor wanted to do more than surgery. So the doctor suggested I freeze my eggs because the chemo and radiation would impact my reproductive system. This tumor was taking over my life. I am only 20 years old and I have not even started living yet. I really wanted my own biological children but the cost was prohibitive. When I talked with the doctor about the problem they found Team Maggie For A Cure, who offered grants to help cancer patients with fertility preservation costs. I was awarded a grant! Every day I am thankful for those who are willing to lend a helping hand. A grant meant a huge burden was lifted off my family.