Clare (8) and Mackenzie (9) are DIPG Warriors defying the odds as they reached 6-years post-diagnosis!
Clare, Ohio, age 8
Marking the 6th anniversary of diagnosis day was bittersweet for the Ronnebaum family. "We are so very lucky," wrote Clare's Mom. 6 years ago, her parents were told Clare would only have 8-11 months to live. As they celebrate her continued stable scans, they are also reminded of all the children facing DIPG who don't get to celebrate this milestone.
At the time of her diagnosis, there were only two clinical trials available for Clare, one being the life-saving trial funded by The Cure Starts Now. "Clare is doing as well as she is because of the research and opportunities children have today," her mom wrote.
Mackenzie, South Carolina, age 9
Mackenzie was a 3-year-old princess who loved Minnie Mouse when she was diagnosed with DIPG. She has moved many mountains in the 6 years since her diagnosis. Overcoming adversity and proving to be a resilient warrior, Mackenzie is flourishing. She has been able to grow up to discover new passions in Minecraft and singing along to Taylor Swift. Grateful to watch her grow up, her dad Thomas Barron writes, “We are extremely blessed that Mackenzie is NOT a statistic and we are able to continue to enjoy life WITH her.”
With consistent stable scans, Mackenzie and her family are still seeking a cure, knowing that their path can take a turn at any moment. “We must find a cure,” says her Dad. “Even if Mackenzie isn't a recipient, maybe she can be the one who breaks the barrier for other kids.”
Big Miracles
These remarkable young ladies are paving the way for a future filled with hope. Many other families facing this diagnosis look to them as examples of the possibilities that lie ahead. Right now, Mackenzie and Clare are among the 2% of children who survive five years after diagnosis, and both have participated in trials funded by The Cure Starts Now.
Your donations fund essential clinical trials, giving every child diagnosed with brain cancer the chance to celebrate a lifetime of milestones.
