Collin’s Story

I was on vacation with my family heading to a whale watch when I suddenly became violently sick. I was fine one minute and severely ill the next. I had experienced several of these episodes before but none that approached this magnitude. A CT scan was ordered after we returned home, and, although I was only 8 years old, I knew something was wrong when the hospital held me for observation overnight. After two MRI’s the next morning, I was told that I had a malignant meningioma brain tumor that had doubled the size of my left ventricle, cutting off the majority of fluid to my spine. A week later, in August 1995, I had surgery to remove the tumor at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, followed by over a month of daily, heavy-dose radiation. Thanks to the amazing medical staff in Cincinnati and the overwhelming support from family, friends and the community, I recently celebrated my college graduation from the University of Dayton and, as of this August, 15 years of cancer-free life. This experience has inspired me to give to back to others in need as so many have done for me. I am currently working with the UC Brain Tumor Center’s Walk Ahead For a Brain Tumor Cure 5k subcommittee and am volunteering in the Department of Neurosurgery at the UC Neuroscience Institute.