My Story
Hi, I'm Andrew! I was diagnosed with a brain tumor in Nov 2019 which would change my life forever. I was given the average prognosis (life span) for brain tumor patients and that life would be very difficult moving forward. Despite the diagnosis, challenges and loneliness, I never gave up. I woke from the craniotomy in the ICU with aphasia (not being able to speak due to damage caused by the tumor on the speech portion of my brain). I could only make sounds and nod yes or no. I remember not only feeling trapped within my own mind, but how terrifying it was to not be able to communicate verbally nor able to fully understand what was being said to me. I was initially diagnosed with a potential glioblastoma and an average of less than 5 years to live. At the initial meeting with my neurosurgeon, he went through my MRI scans and discussed his plan of action to remove the tumor. After his presentation and discussion, he asked me, "Do you have any questions? You have been very stoic and haven't said a thing." I looked him in the eye and said "I have but three questions for you. Are you married and have kids?" He said, "yes." I then asked, "Do you have a son, and if you do, if I was your son and diagnosed with what you just diagnosed me with, would you change anything about the way you would approach the operation?" He responded, "No, I wouldn't change a thing". My last question to him was, "Do you believe in God?" He said, "Yes, I do." I then proceeded to say "I appreciate your professional opinion, however, I do not accept your diagnosis. I believe in the one who created you and I, therefore I believe that your hands will be used as a tool to heal me and only God is able to have the final word." He smiled and the next time I saw him was on operation day. Picking up where I left off earlier recovering in the ICU, (still being unable to speak nor fully understand what was said to me), I do recall opening my eyes to my neurosurgeon next to my bed and I understood everything he said to me clear as day. "Andrew, I was able to remove 95% of the tumor and made a diagnosis in the OR, but for safe measure, had the tumor sent to pathology where it was given the final diagnosis. We just got the results back, and it turns out I was wrong, the tumor is benign." I smiled as I knew God had his hand on me, but there was still a long road ahead. In hindsight, the journey was worth it as it led me here, with you, to start this business to support cancer patients and their caregivers. I know firsthand how treacherous of a journey it is. I assure you, with full confidence and conviction, you are not alone and you will be supported by all who are members of this club. I made this for you, patients and caregivers, to know you are seen, heard and will never be alone for there will always be inspiration for tomorrow.
My Vision
The mission of this club is to support those who think they are forgotten, unseen, alone and suffering with no hope in sight. The diagnosis of a tumor of any type can change a life in an instant. I recognized that this creates a transformation inside of us emotionally, mentally and even spiritually, all which is unbeknownst to many. The pain and loneliness I experienced on multiple levels was something I want to try to change in other's lives for the better. The diagnosis I received transformed my life in the sense that it opened my eyes to the harsh reality of many things, yet gave me intense clarity. I made the decision to call my business the The Tumor Transformation because when researching potential names, whenever I searched for anything regarding tumors and transformation, they all led me to websites, articles and journals regrading malignant cancer and suffering. I want to be the positive light in a space where I have only found destitute of hope and loss. I grieve over the loss of many friends to cancer all before 35 and have had family stricken with this horrible ailment. The suffering I've seen and experienced has made me realize that so many people's eyes are open but their minds are blind to what is happening behind the closed doors of these patients and caregivers. When a doctor gives a diagnosis, at the end of the work day they can take off their coat and go on to other things in their life (not insinuating doctors lack compassion and sympathy). However, when a person becomes a patient and is labeled with a diagnosis in the hospital, that stays with them for an unforeseeable amount of time that others cannot fathom. I promise that I will connect you with people that are here, (myself included), to support you, inspire you and give you hope and inspiration for tomorrow; one day, one smile and one laugh at a time.
Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.
-Romans 12:12
FAQs
What's with the Capybara?
The cancer comfort capybara was brought into fruition and inspired by a student of mine. One day, I was teaching a class and asked a student to take one item from their backpack that they would like to share with the class. With great enthusiasm and a huge smile, they pulled out not only a capybara pencil, but a capybara folder, pencil case, keychain and "squishy" (plushie). I was so delighted and inspired that it quickly reminded me that not only do adults go through cancer, but kids do too. I believe that a soft symbol of peace, comfort, laughter and hope should be made available to them as well.
Why the name?
The Tumor Transformation name was chosen because of the memory of my diagnosis. I remember the thoughts and emotions that began swirling in my mind. After some introspection and going through treatment, I discovered that a transformation had occurred from within. I looked at myself, the world and people in a different light. At first it was bleak, but then over time, life became much simpler and the clarity was astounding. I was able to see clearly for the first time in my life. I dealt with the depths of the darkness, loneliness, anxiety, pain and depression but fighting through that allowed me to see so much more than anyone around me. The simple life with stability and necessities is what I now strive for. I had broken free from the race of the world. In essence, the tumor transformed my life and I in a good way, that paved the way to what you now know as The Tumor Transformation.
How does this all work?
As a patient, I quickly realized how you can often be overlooked and forgotten by family and friends. This led to isolation, depression and hopelessness. I started this club to help alleviate those feelings and inspire with connection and comfort, all without having to leave your home.
1) At the beginning of each month on the featured page, subscribers will find a patient and caregiver along with their story. (If you would like to personally nominate a patient or caregiver that you believe deserves recognition or needed support please fill out the form on the join the club page with details.) Choose who you would like to write to from there. I keep the amount of featured patients and caregivers capped at 1 each per month to ensure that nobody is forgotten and given the support, love and attention they deserve.
- This is a monthly subscription based service that can be cancelled at any time. All letters/gifts will be sent out to the recipients at the end of each month. Yes, you can buy any gift for yourself. Please use the Gifts page to purchase and put the correct address for delivery if purchased for yourself and not the recipient.
2) A choice of 1 or 2 letters (based on what Level package you signed up for) written to whomever you choose, will be emailed to me. From there, I will personally package and send them (along with any other gifts included or optional) to ensure confidentiality for the patient/caregiver. The recipients have the decision to write back or not. If they so choose to, I will notify the writer and provide the address to the recipient to directly communicate via email or letter, therefore establishing a connection and a new pen pal!
Who is considered a caregiver?
3) The cost of subscription for non-patient/non-caregiver subscribers covers postage, materials and production expenses. Most, but not all, gifts, stickers, cards and thank you postcards are designed by me and printed.
*Subscriptions renew automatically. Please cancel before the start of the next month if you do not wish to continue.
Joining our club means becoming part of a community that truly understands the weight of your experience. We foster a safe space where shared stories lead to meaningful growth and lasting connections, ensuring that every step of your journey is met with empathy and active support from others walking the same path.
There are 2 subscription tier levels:
-Tier 1: Light and Encouragement Package
-Tier 2: Connect and Care Package
Based on what Tier Level is chosen determines what surprise pack you will receive and how many letters (1 or 2) will be sent with the end of month care package to the recipient(s).
*Every Patient and Caregiver will receive a single care package from me at the end of the month packaged with the letters from all subscribers who have written to them. *
Each letter will be printed on a custom branded The Tumor Transformation letterhead and then placed in envelope with The Tumor Transformation logo.
(For future subscribers, choose an option on the home page. Any other questions not found in FAQs feel free to email me or fill out form on contact page)
(For patients, caregivers or nominees please fill out form on the Join the Club page)
Caregivers are anyone who care for patients: Doctors, nurses, spouses, home health care aides, therapists, etc. In a nutshell, anyone who helps patients on their cancer journey through direct support and care at home, in hospitals, hospice or rehab facilities.
* For all letters, either handwritten or typed is acceptable. However, if handwritten, please scan then email. Typed is preferred due to potential legibility issues for the patient to read.