Dominic is a 13 year old who loves outdoor activities such as going to the beach and camping. He also enjoys history, hanging out with his friends, and playing with his family’s dog. He lives in Allentown with his mom Alyssa, his dad Jody, and his 17 year old brother Lou.
In 2015, Dominic was diagnosed with Medullablastoma, brain cancer. Medullablastoma typically starts as a tumor in the cerebellum, which the the part of the brain that is towards the back at the base of the skull. After being diagnosed, Dominic had surgery to remove his tumor at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP). He spent three months inpatient following his surgery. The surgery left him unable to eat, talk, or walk. He had to relearn all of those skills with intense rehabilitation through CHOP. Dominic’s mother says that he fought through all his trials with unbelievable bravery and courage. In May 2022, Dominic’s team moved him into Survivorship. His family feels beyond blessed for this miracle.
When asked what she wishes others knew about cancer, Dominic’s mother Alyssa said that she wishes people know how not rare it is, how under funded research is and how much more awareness and attention this disease needs to be given. She says that she loves to tell her family’s story in order to bring hope to those that are new to this journey. She would tell families with new a diagnosis, “Breathe, take each day, one day at a time. All the things you feel are all ok! Connect with other pediatric cancer parents and families. It can seem completely hopeless but do not lose hope.” She wants to continue to spread awareness and not just for September. “These kids are in a fight for their lives and they are the bravest of the brave.”
Want to support others on this journey? Dominic and his family will be hosting an Alex’s Lemonade Stand and Basket Raffle on 9/24/22 11:00-3:00 at Blackman’s Cycle, 4911 Buckeye Road, Emmaus, PA 18049. Join then in person or grab a virtual cup of lemonade by visiting Dom’s page.
To learn more about pediatric brain cancers including Medullablastoma, visit Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia’s website.
