Mark Shamin, a courageous 14-year-old, is familiar with the struggle for survival. He has been diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a rare and aggressive bone cancer, for the second time in his young life. Mark’s journey has been remarkable. At just two years old, he faced cancer previously, enduring months of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. After overcoming the illness, he enjoyed a childhood filled with school, friends, and dreams.
However, life took a different turn. This past May, Mark’s life was turned upside down once more. What began as leg pain, initially dismissed by his family as mere “growing pains,” quickly escalated into a more alarming situation. Despite early reassurances from doctors, it became evident that something was amiss. Following a hospital visit and a series of tests, the heartbreaking diagnosis was revealed: osteosarcoma of the hip bone with metastasis to the lungs—stage IV cancer.
For Mark’s mother, it was a nightmare she thought had been left behind. “I couldn’t hold back the tears,” she recalled. “Mark asked, ‘Is something bad?’ I said, ‘Yes, something bad, but don’t worry. We’ll beat it again.'” This marked the start of their second battle against the monster that nearly claimed Mark’s life as a toddler.
A Brave Spirit
Now, at 14, Mark is acutely aware of the gravity of his diagnosis. He understands what cancer is, its implications for his body, and what it takes to survive. His comprehension of his illness is deep, yet despite the fear and pain, Mark confronts this battle with an indomitable spirit. “I will overcome this,” he asserts. He refuses to give up—this time, or ever.
His days are filled with the harsh realities of treatment: relentless chemotherapy cycles, exhausting hospital visits, and the persistent pain from the growing tumor. The doctors’ candid remarks about the impending surgery—which could leave him unable to walk—only strengthen his resolve. “We won’t give up,” Mark’s mother states. “We can’t.”
Mark has a passion for history and geography, loves animals, and dreams of visiting Japan someday. Above all, he yearns to return to his classroom, to be with his friends, and to live the life every 14-year-old deserves.
The Path to Treatment
Mark is currently undergoing his fourth cycle of intensive chemotherapy, which has been grueling, but he is persevering. With the tumor nearly obliterating his hipbone, a challenging surgery awaits. The risks are significant, and there is no assurance that Mark will walk again. Nevertheless, his family remains hopeful. “I won’t accept it,” his mother insists. “I started searching for options.”
That’s when they found a clinic in Israel that has provided children like Mark a chance at life. After months of uncertainty and fear, Mark and his family traveled to Israel on September 14th for a new treatment phase, beginning with another chemotherapy cycle. If successful, he will undergo tests to evaluate the tumor’s response and prepare for surgery. The treatment is costly, prompting the family to launch a fundraising campaign to gather the necessary funds.
A Supportive Community
Despite the overwhelming treatment costs, Mark’s family has been uplifted by the support from their community—friends, family, and even strangers—who have come together for them. However, the battle is far from over. “We need to raise the remaining funds as quickly as possible,” his mother emphasizes. Every day is crucial in the fight against cancer.
Mark has one aspiration: to live. He dreams of becoming a politician, aiming to change the world so that all children have access to the medical care they require. “I want to ensure no child has to endure this,” he expresses. But before he can achieve that, he must first survive.
A Plea for Assistance
Mark is a warrior, but even warriors require support. His family is seeking donations, assistance, and hope. “We’re pleading for help,” his mother says, her voice filled with emotion. “Our child has faced cancer twice. He wants to live. He wants to change the world. Please help us help him.”
Mark’s story exemplifies the resilience of the human spirit and the power of hope. It’s about the struggle against cancer, the quest for a future, and the love of a family that refuses to surrender. Mark is fighting for his life—and with the support of compassionate individuals like you, he believes he will triumph, just as he did before.
Every donation, every prayer, every kind word aids Mark in his battle. For Mark, the fight is not solely about surviving cancer—it’s about living, dreaming, and making the world a better place for everyone. Please, help him realize his dream. 💛
