In October 2023 my little brother Terrel was diagnosed with Stage IV kidney cancer called Renal Medullary Carcinoma (RMC). RMC is a rare and aggressive kidney cancer that accounts of only 1% of cancer diagnoses.
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In October 2023 my little brother Terrel was diagnosed with Stage IV kidney cancer called Renal Medullary Carcinoma (RMC). RMC is a rare and aggressive kidney cancer that accounts of only 1% of cancer diagnoses in the world. In the US, it is usually found in younger Black people with sickle cell anemia or carry the sickle cell trait. So far, Terrel has endured multiple tests, a kidney biopsy and will begin chemotherapy in the next few days. His faith, courage and willingness to share his story has been incredible during the emotional rollercoaster leading to his official diagnosis.
Unfortunately, the data on conventional treatments available for RMC do not have a favorable success rate so my family has already begun to think outside the box to help prolong and save my brother's life.
Because this cancer is so rare, it doesn't get much funding for research purposes which means the standard chemotherapy treatments have remained the same since before the 60's! There are a few long-term survivors of RMC and it seems to be people survive and thrive when alternative advanced treatments are used in conjunction with chemotherapy and kidney removal. Due to how aggressive this cancer is, it is imperative that we project manage his treatment to ensure not a day is wasted. We are in a race against time and determined to win with God's grace.
Terrel is an otherwise healthy 31-year-old that has two young children; a 12-year-old son that has sickle cell anemia and a 7-year-old daughter that adores her Daddy. Coincidently Terrel was laid off from his job after becoming ill and is expected to start a new job very soon, so health insurance and job security is also a concern. Alternative treatment options could give Terrel the chance he needs to beat this disease, but it is very expensive! Your funding will help my brother explore every medical option possible, associated travel cost across, provide for his children and manage his everyday living expenses. We urgently need your help!
In addition to this funding request, we are working on a line of Kidney Cancer awareness products to help us raise funds and awareness of RMC, RCC, and Sickle Cell. We are not only determined to help Terrel beat cancer, but we are also committed to raising the awareness needed to have routine screenings done for sickle cell patients that will help detect diseases like RMC earlier.
Without your help and without these funds the battle ahead becomes increasingly challenging. We would be so incredibly grateful for any donations.
Terrel is a fighter and has overcome numerous obstacles in his life, but this is literally a fight for his life. Please help us save my brother's life.
Thank you!
Niya (Wise) Alcindor
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