After Childhood Cancer, My Big Life | Sammi Janower | TEDxYouth@BeaconStreet

As a 3-year-old child, Sammi was diagnosed with a brain tumor, requiring brain surgery, two years of chemotherapy, and many months in the hospital. Now, at age 16, Sammi has gone from being the inspiration for bike riders in the Pan Mass Challenge (a ride for Dana Farber) to riding in the race herself. This petite, 4’10” high school junior demonstrates some pretty outsized strength. My name is Sammi Janower. I am 16 years old and currently a rising Junior at the Noble and Greenough School. When I was 3, I was diagnosed with a pediatric brain tumor. I spent much of my childhood feeling nauseous and tired as the result of my treatments, some of which have had undesirable long term side effects. For my TEDx talk, I would want to focus on the idea that everything happens for a reason. Although I went through a terrible experience, I am now able to help others in the same situation and try to use the story of my cancer journey to inspire others. I have spent years helping to raise money for research into less toxic and more effective treatments for brain tumors. In addition, I have trained for two years to ride the Pan Mass Challenge on a tandem with my dad. As a result of our efforts over the past decade, this formerly orphan disease is much closer to a cure, helping many children and their families find hope for a better future.

I believe that I am making a positive impact in the world by advocating for an orphaned disease and for the support of cancer research. Speaking at the Pan Mass Challenge Heavy Hitter’s dinner in May, I helped raise awareness for such a great organization and raise more money for the cause. Similarly, by working with our family’s foundation, A Kids Brain Tumor Cure, I have helped to raise money in order to find non-toxic cures for pediatric brain tumors, some of which are being by patients today.

[sleepbananas]

Thank you for speaking out, Sammi, you did a wonderful job! I am a brain tumor survivor as well, diagnosed 23 years ago at age 9. I also stand a whopping 4'9" height and even at age 32 I'm often overlooked as a child. I love your determination. You're a great advocate for childhood cancer!

[gracemarie]

my greatest and bravest friend... this girl has changed my life

[struggerb]

I can attest, that beyond being brave, Sammi really does speak like that: as confidently and eloquently in real life when she’s not giving a TED Talk!

[sashagrutman]

I was so impressed by sammi’s talk. Well said. Heartfelt. Really moving. Bravo.

[AmandaSiobhanLyons]

Thank you Sammi, you are so strong! I was treated at Dana Farber last year for Ewing Sarcoma Cancer.

[samikshabhomle]

You can consult Dr. S. K. Gupta to learn more about pediatric hematology.
He is one of the best hematologists in India. If you can't visit his hospital, Dr. S. K. Gupta also has a video consultation facility.
Visit their website for consultation or for a second opinion regarding treatment.

[eli.muskett]

I have been through cancer as well
I’m still a child
And funny thing is
I’m 4 foot 8 and a half
And I will be that height the rest if my life since I stopped growing when I was 10 (precocious puberty) and had spinal fusion surgery

[gulabkharde]

If u knows anyone same type suffering u will motivate for come front of people and express their experiences for more people.
Thanks for express