Today we share with you the story of Frank and Heather. 25 year old Frank is the caregiver for his wife Heather, also 25, who was diagnosed with grade 3 brain cancer last December. Frank received 2 separated nominations by Arlone and Belinda for CEF’s Caregiver of National Caregiver Month Award.

Heather’s journey through cancer has included brain surgery, radiation, and chemo over the past year. Frank has been Heather’s rock and source of support through this process. Like all of our caregivers, Frank has gone out of his way to not only provide the day to day care but also the support that will help Heather in the long run, actively seeking the best doctors in Dallas, where they live. Actively working to make sure Heather is cared for but also that she finds the best and proper treatment.

On top of it all Frank has been the rock and caregiver for his mother-in-law who has also been waging a long battle with colon cancer at the same time. All the while continuing to work and support his family financially.

Frank’s nominees have only inspiring and amazing words to share:

“Frank has been a rockstar and caregiver to both his wife and his mother in law. He is 25 years old and the most kindest and caring person I know. He deserves to be recognized as he truly is amazing!”

“His love and loyalty have not wavered…Frank has been a source of comfort for both [his wife and mother-in-law] while he holds down a job.”

Heather is still doing ongoing chemo and simply put without her husband’s devotion and support, making her smile she would’ve been lost. — Belinda, in her nomination of Frank

Photos of Frank, Heather and Stacy

Photos of Frank, Heather and Stacy

Amazing work Frank! We are proud and honored to share your story, and all you’re doing for your loved ones. Congratulations on receiving the most nominations and receiving the CEF Caregiver Award for National Caregiver Month. While we received many amazing nominations, yours stood out among the crowd. Keep on doing what you’re doing. Let us know if we can help!

Belinda and Arlone nominated Frank N. as part of our campaign to recognize all of the amazing work caregivers are doing during National Caregiver Month. To see a list of caregivers and their stories search our blog for the tag “National Caregiver Month 2013” or use this link.

If you are currently undergoing treatment or caring for a loved undergoing brain cancer or brain tumor treatment don’t hesitate to contact the Chris Elliott Fund with your questions or thoughts. We know that caring for a loved one is a demanding journey and should not be done alone. For help in caring for your brain tumor warrior we hope you read through our “My Support Network” information sheet that will help you identify people in your life to help you in your journey. Request your copy here:

Download Here

We have also published several informational blog posts for our caregivers over the years as we know they are a key part of a brain tumor patients journey. Here are a few links you may find useful:

Please do not hesitate to contact us about ways we can help. You are not alone.

Please feel free to leave your comments and thoughts for Frank, Heather, Stacy, Belinda and Arlone using the comments below.