Shawnee has always been one to put others before herself. With a heart of gold and a generous spirit, she’s the kind of daughter, sister, and friend who makes those around her feel loved and cared for. Now though, in the midst of the toughest fight of her life, it’s Shawnee who needs the love and support of those around her.
On June 19, 2024, 15-year-old Shawnee received news that she had a malignant tumor in her brain. Since this diagnosis, she’s endured multiple head surgeries and two port surgeries, facing every challenge with incredible strength.
Her cancer journey has been anything but easy, requiring weekly treatments that are 163 miles away from home. Most weeks, Shawnee has more than one appointment, adding to the already overwhelming stress of her condition. But just when the family thought they were getting a handle on things, they received more heartbreaking news—doctors discovered seven blood clots in Shawnee’s lungs, posing significant complications to her road to recovery.
Through it all, Shawnee has found comfort in the little things that bring her joy—especially music. She particularly loves listening to Jelly Roll, Post Malone, and Shaboozey as an escape from the trials and tribulations of her everyday battle. Gaming also helps take her mind off treatments, and she can spend hours playing Fortnite on her Xbox. More than anything though, the love of her family is what keeps her fighting. Shawnee has her parents, a twin sister, an older sister, and three brothers who stand by her side to remind her every day that she is not in this battle alone.
Because of the incredible power of community and the generosity of our donors, Compass to Care has been able to provide 76 trips to and from treatment for Shawnee and her family, ensuring she reaches her critical appointments despite the long journey. The weight of traveling such long distances every week could have been overwhelming, but thanks to this support, Shawnee can focus on what truly matters—her fight to get better. The family’s optimism and faith during these times is a testament to how instrumental community can be in lifting others up, even during the hardest moments.
Sometimes, that’s all we need: to know we have support. The simple fact that we’re not alone can be enough to keep going—not just for ourselves, but for those we love and those who love us. Shawnee is a warrior, and with an army of support behind her, she continues to face every challenge with the utmost strength.
Although Shawnee’s journey isn’t over and the road ahead remains uncertain, with the love of family, the power of music, and the unwavering support from community, she continues to push forward with courage and hope. As she fights through each day, we ask for thoughts and prayers to help lift Shawnee and her family up during this incredibly difficult time.