On October 24 2019 The incredible Dr Lorenzo at SickKids performed a successful 11 hour Pelvic Lymph Node Dissection surgery and I began an extensive treatment plan with SickKids Hospital receiving 14 rounds of chemotherapy (64 treatments ), 45 blood tests, 1 angiogram, 2 MRI’s, 3 PET/CT scans and 2 X-rays over a 48 week period. On September 23 2020 I had my port removed During this time I continued with my winter part time job as a snow board instructor, and completed grade 11 with full credits. My senior year was focused on regaining my strength. I graduated with my class in 2021 with honours and worked at my summer landscaping job. Since then I have entered University and spent the past summer backpacking through Europe I was told I had a table of up to 32 Doctors that would discuss my prognosis and plan of attack monthly. Dr. Shaikh, fellow Adam Yan and my Co-ordinator Arvinder were amazing, they became a 2nd family, always able to put a smile on my face, making my stay as comfortable as possible and answering as many questions that I had. Nobody wants to have Cancer, but I am grateful that I had SickKids Hospital taking care of me. My battle vs cancer has helped to shape the person I am today. Life is not something to take for granted, it is meant to be appreciated, enjoyed and valued very day. I am now in my 2nd year of University working my way towards a degree in Engineering. It will still be another 3 years until I am officially considered Cancer free but a positive attitude and the great support and care I received at Sick Kids Hospital saved my life. I am ready to start my next chapter by helping to change the world through new engineering discoveries and my ‘you got this’ outlook. Thank you to Sick Kids Hospital and everyone that has been a part of my journey Grayden Shea
On October 6 2019, I was diagnosed with embryonal anapalastic rhabdomyosarcoma, a rare and aggressive sarcoma cancer with a 20% survival rate.
