Chordoma Champion
Justin Straus
I was diagnosed with a clival chordoma five years ago and have had three recurrences. Although there have been treatments that have stopped the growth of my tumors, none have allowed me to go into remission and there is no cure.
Recently, I had surgery which completely removed a tumor and I finally thought we were on the home stretch of my long journey. A few months later, I learned that my tumor had not just grown again but at a very rapid rate. I thought my days were numbered. My Mom frantically began to research treatment options and she discovered the Chordoma Foundation.
After hearing about the progress by Josh and Simone Sommer in starting the Foundation and pulling together so many people to work on a cure, I began to feel more hopeful. Not only has the Foundation jump started research but I am convinced that a cure will be found in time for me to grow up.
Six months later, my family and I have become not only involved with the foundation but some of its strongest volunteers. I am particularly proud of the Chordoma Community Conference where there will be a special program for kids and teenagers who have had chordoma aged 12-18. I hope to see you there.
I would love to hear from you. Send me an e-mail at
JustinStraus@ChordomaFoundation.org