Brian's cancer story started just over a year ago in April of 2013 at the age of 15. After finding a lump under his right arm and then 5 days later discovering a lump in his left abdomen, a few doctors visits and finally surgery on April 18, 2013 to remove what we hoped was an infected lymph node and a lipoma - we heard the devastating news that it was Lymphoma. We knew it was NHL quickly but it took 7 days to officially determine his diagnosis of Stage III Burkitt's Lymphoma. Burkitt's is the fastest growing cancer, often doubling in size within 24 hours. We had already been in the hospital 5 days by that time and chemo started the next day. Brian's protocol called for him to receive 5 rounds of intense chemotherapy. He had to have many scans, tests, 10 lumbar punctures to administer chemo into his spinal column and a lot of very serious medications. We traveled to Boston from Old Saybrook, CT and would stay 7-8 days inpatient at Boston Children's Hospital while our amazing team from The Jimmy Fund and Dana Farber Cancer Institute worked to save his life. We did this five times and by July 2, 2013 Brian was through his protocol and ready to go home and recover. As of today 7/2/14, Brian is ONE YEAR IN REMISSION!! Brian is enjoying his new freedom in life after earning his drivers license. He is an avid guitar player and gamer. He is homeschooled and currently starting his senior year of high school. Brian has been giving back by walking in The Jimmy Fund Walk last Sept. and planning his team for this year. He has also participated in a walk and helped the Connecticut Chapter of Make-A-Wish in their goal to provide children with magical wishes. He was granted his wish of a trip to Pompeii, Italy last October because of his love for Ancient History. As his Mom, I am shaving my head in support of all the Moms and Dads and kids who hear those awful, life changing words of "Your Child Had Cancer." I want to help St. Baldrick's fund the much needed and important pediatric-specific cancer research so we can help all our children to survive and to thrive until a cure is found.