Why ‘Team Schimmer’?
On December 20, 2008 Ryker Magnusson Schimnowski, son of Stefan Schimnowski and Shawna (soon-to-be Schimnowski) Trush, passed away mere days before his much-anticipated birthday.
40 days later, on January 29, 2009 the Schimnowski’s were hit with more devasting news – both Shawna, and Stefan’s brother John, were diagnosed with cancer.
Shawna has choriocarcinoma, a malignant and aggressive cancer, usually of the placenta and is one of the tumors that is most sensitive to chemotherapy. Thankfully, the cure rate, even for metastatic choriocarcinoma, is around 90-95%. Shawna is bravely battling through chemotherapy and is determined to win.
John was diagnosed with chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML), an uncommon type of cancer of the blood cells. The chronic phase is the earliest phase and generally has the best response to treatment. John too, is bravely battling back and with continued treatment, will enjoy a full life.
So, why Team Schimmer? Team Schimmer formed to honour, support and fight with all past, present and future Schimnowski’s (AKA Schimmer’s) in the hope that cancer will never have to be a part of their, or anyone else’s, life again.
As a team, we unfortunately know countless people who have fought and/or are currently fighting cancer – we proudly honour them too.
Thank you for your support.
Team Schimmer