My Journey: Love, Faith, and Resilience…

My name is Seana, and I am 24 years old. At 22, I was diagnosed with a terminal brain cancer called Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG), typically a pediatric cancer. At the time, I had just completed my first year of Physician Assistant School at Thomas Jefferson University and was living a very independent life.

The diagnosis changed everything, but not in all the ways I expected. While my life shifted completely, it has been, in many ways, for the better. I moved home to live with my parents and discovered a deep, life-giving faith that has truly saved me. My relationship with God became my foundation. I reconnected with old friends, formed new relationships, and treasured more time with my family. I learned to rest without guilt, to move at my own pace, and to focus on what matters most: loving God, loving others, and loving myself. LOVE is the legacy I want to leave behind.

My Day-to-Day Life…

Every day looks different, and I have grown to appreciate that freedom. My mornings begin with a choice to avoid my phone, instead listening to a self-love meditation or a reflection from my Catholic prayer app, followed by a devotional or daily Mass. Starting with prayer sets a positive tone for the day.

Over the past month, I have regained strength after a period of weakness on my right side. My mom had been making my meals, but now I prepare my breakfast and lunch again. My afternoons may include therapy sessions, a visit from a friend, or appointments at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. On other days, I enjoy walks with my dogs, grocery shopping, or time outdoors.

One of my greatest joys has been horseback riding, which not only strengthens my body, but also my mind. I also work on my brand, More Than Exceptional, post on social media, and complete small projects. Evenings are slow and peaceful: dinner with my parents, time with my dogs, a shower, and a few pages from a self-help book before ending the night with a Catholic sleep meditation. Throughout the day, I pray.

Facing Challenges…

My family has faced tumor progression multiple times, endured three courses of radiation, and traveled monthly to Miami for a clinical trial that eventually lost funding. We have had to adjust to new realities when my health changes.

Through these challenges, the support around us has made all the difference. God’s presence, my family’s love, friends, doctors, strangers, and the generosity of organizations and support groups have carried us. Among them, PCFLV has been a lifeline.

The Gift of PCFLV…

PCFLV has been there for my family in countless ways. They have eased travel burdens with gift cards, surprised us with holiday meals, and given us joyful outings like baseball games. They have cared for my parents, too, offering a “Parent Night Out” where they could connect with others on similar journeys.

Just last month, before a round of radiation, I suddenly needed a wheelchair and did not have one. PCFLV stepped in immediately, lending us one without hesitation. Knowing they are always ready to help, whether in big or small ways, reminds us we are never walking this road alone.

A Place of Peace…

For my PCFLV photo shoot, I chose my art room and office. This space was a surprise gift from dear friends when I was first diagnosed. It has become my sanctuary, a place to write, share my journey online, create art, or simply sit and breathe.

Amid challenges, this room holds pieces of my heart. It is where I reflect, where I dream, and where I feel most like myself. Surrounded by things I love, my mind slows, my body relaxes, and my heart feels lighter.

My Legacy…

Cancer may have altered the course of my life, but it has not taken away its meaning. My faith is stronger, my relationships richer, and my appreciation for life greater than ever. I have learned to embrace each day with intention, notice the blessings, and let love guide everything I do.

That is the story I want to leave behind: that even in life’s hardest moments, love can lead us through.

Written by Seana

Please consider helping children with cancer and others in our community by scheduling a blood donation at Miller-Keystone Blood Center: https://donor.giveapint.org/donor/schedules/zip