Meet Shrey, a resilient 15-year-old whose life took an unexpected turn just before his birthday in February 2024. Shrey was like any other teenager, playing on his high school football team, hanging out with friends, playing video games, and cherishing time with his family. However, his world was turned upside down when he was diagnosed with Osteosarcoma, a type of bone cancer.
The diagnosis was a shock for Shrey and his family. After several scans, lab work, and a biopsy, it was confirmed: he had osteosarcoma. With the support of close family friends, Shrey's parents decided to take him to RWJ New Brunswick in NJ. After several consultations, it was clear that Shrey needed to start chemotherapy immediately. However, before that could happen, he required a port-a-cath, a special device implanted in his body to safely receive chemotherapy. This was just the beginning of many surgeries Shrey would undergo to remove the tumor from his leg.
The tumor left Shrey unable to use his right leg, ending his days of playing sports. Faced with a decision no teenager should have to make, Shrey had to choose between amputation and a complex surgery to remove the tumor and replace his knee. Determined to maintain the integrity of his leg, Shrey opted for the latter.
Shrey underwent a grueling 15-hour surgery to remove the tumor and reconstruct his knee. Thanks to the skill of his medical team and a bit of divine intervention, the margins were clean, bringing Shrey one step closer to recovery. This major surgery came after 10 weeks of intensive chemotherapy.
Through it all, Shrey has shown immense strength. Post-surgery, he has been staying in the hospital, undergoing inpatient rehabilitation along with continued chemotherapy infusions. Despite his bravery, the hospital has often made him feel homesick.
We heard Shrey's story and learned of his love for video games. To help bridge the gap and bring comfort to Shrey during his hospital stay, we donated video games, a television, and other items he loves, bringing a little piece of home to his hospital room. Shrey's family shared, "We are profoundly grateful to the Fightstrong Foundation, which has helped bridge that gap. Their generous donation of video games, a television, and other items that Shrey loves has brought a little piece of home to his hospital room. They have exceeded our expectations, and we are forever thankful."
Shrey's journey is far from over, but with the unwavering support of his family, friends, and the Fightstrong Foundation, we are confident that he will continue to fight and overcome. His resilience and courage make him a true warrior.
Shrey, the journey you have just begun is one of the most remarkable stories we have heard. We cannot wait to see you beat this and have a life full of health and happiness! Continuous prayers and love sent your way!