Just over a year ago, Class of 2012 BHS Alum Timmy Wilson passed away after bravely fighting brain cancer for 18 months.  Originally, he was diagnosed with the same type of cancer that killed John McCain, but, upon further review, he was ultimately diagnosed with medulloblastoma. Although this type of cancer was more treatable, it spread to his spine and the growth in both the spine and the brain outpaced the treatment.

 

Devastated, friends and family were determined to honor Timmy in the 2018 “Angels Among Us” 5K at Duke, where he received his treatment.  A group of 25 participated in the event last year, located in the Duke Gardens where Timmy loved spending time during his time there.  Money raised during the event goes toward brain cancer research and helps the families who are going through the treatment at the Tisch Brain Tumor Center.

 

“There were times that we were unable to leave the hospital and the volunteers would bring us snack and coffee in the treatment areas,” said Timmy’s dad Craig. “It was a big help and we hope to pay that forward and help other families by participating in this event.”

 

Since Timmy’s treatment, the cancer center has added a very precise radiation machine that can more accurately target tumors without harming other tissue.  The new addition does the same treatment in a matter of days instead of weeks and does so with less damage to the body.  

 

The 2019 “Angels Among Us” 5K and fun walk is slated for April 27 and Timmy’s Team shirts are already available to order.  Even if community members can’t attend the event, the family hopes they will don the shirts in support of this event honoring Timmy’s life.  Shirts can be ordered HERE.

 

The 5K and fun walk raises awareness of brain cancers and also raises funds that help to make advances in treatment options.  The Wilsons hope to raise money that will benefit families currently going through the pain they endured and would love to increase the number of participants in attendance on April 27.

 

Those wishing to participate or donate can find details of the event at https://secure3.convio.net/dccc/site/TR/Angels/AngelsAmongUs?team_id=24293&pg=team&fr_id=1503&fbclid=IwAR0Yy8V58r0VuV-AiRDrbT6_6ue0xmn5eaqTHfYgWEXcRke_ClqfmkmSwKs