My name is Keris Nicole Bembry, and I would like to tell you my story!

In November of 2013, at the age of four years old, I was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor. The main symptoms I had leading up to my diagnosis were headaches in the back of my head, and then my balance became really unsteady. After being misdiagnosed a few times, my sweet parents followed their gut instincts and took me to Scottish Rite in Atlanta. The very next day an MRI revealed that I had developed Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG). Everything really changed for me after that day. We later learned that only 10-15% of children are diagnosed with inoperable brain tumors! The doctors started right away on creating a plan just for me. Chemotherapy and radiation treatments became a part of my everyday life. These treatments can make anyone sad, but I chose happiness instead. I found the cutest dress the hospital could offer, a crown fit for a Princess, and I wore them boldly on the evening of my diagnosis. Little did I know that this single act would set the tone for the rest of my journey. It was a constant reminder for myself, my parents, and others to always wear your crown, and keep your head up so it won’t ever slip! Not to mention that a great dress is always appropriate when taking on the impossible.

That next year came with many obstacles, but I was met with an abundance of love and encouragement through it all. I had a royal court of support, and I led my way through each change with grace. After all, a true princess never lets you see her sweat.

With the help of my medical team, parents, siblings, family, and friends I was able to get the best care I could ever receive for DIPG. I went to Atlanta, Houston, and Cincinnati over the next year and a half to fight that tumor with all I had in me. However, the tumor would not shrink enough in size, and remained inoperable throughout the treatments. Determined to live my best life, I enjoyed everything life could offer me, and filled my days with love, laughter, and adventure. I never stopped going to school, spending time with my friends, and doing all of the things that made my heart smile.

On July 12th, 2015, I gained my wings. That is 1 year, 8 months, and 12 days later from the day I was diagnosed, and gratefully many more from the 6 months I was given back in November of 2013. So, don’t be mistaken and think I lost my battle, no, I won in more ways than one! In the end, my cancer was one of a kind, but thankfully, I was too.

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