Aliza Jean Family Cancer Foundation

Providing support for Maine families with children fighting cancer,
with a focus on brain cancer.

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Aliza Jean Herrick Stutzman

In June of 2012, thirteen-year-old Aliza went from being an upbeat, fun filled teenager, to a teenager with a brain tumor. Soon things went from bad to worse when it was discovered that not only was it a very rare and aggressive brain cancer (Astroblastoma), it had also spread.

Over the next several months many more challenges, including seizures and blindness started to take their toll on her body. Amazingly, no matter what she was going through, the challenges never broke her spirit. Throughout her fight, Aliza remained upbeat and positive. “Fight Like A Girl” became her favorite saying and many called her “Little Warrior” because she was able to defy many odds when things got bad.

Her kind spirit was guided by her faith in Christ and her favorite Bible verse; “I Can Do All Things Through Christ Who Strengthens Me.” Philippians 4:13 was her Mantra.
Though her 8 month fight seemed short to many, hundreds if not thousands of friends, family and complete strangers were touched along the way by Aliza’s ability to fight hard, and stay positive.

Her desire to eventually help other teenagers deal with a cancer diagnosis never came to be. In January 2013, Aliza took the hands of the Lord and went home to Heaven.

Because Aliza’s needs were so great during her cancer treatments, her parents Craig & Karen dedicated themselves to her care around the clock. During this time, so many people stepped in to help Craig and Karen’s family, not only emotionally and spiritually but financially as well. By doing so, they were able to give Aliza the best care possible and be by her side through her entire journey. They have now established the ALIZA JEAN FAMILY CANCER FOUNDATION.

Their mission is to give that same kind of focus and positive energy to families in their area whose child is fighting brain cancer.