Pablove Across America 2011 Day 11 Morning Dedication: Madison Star Schafer

Madison was diagnosed with atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumor (a brain tumor) just over a year ago. She underwent an 8 hour brain surgery to remove 90 percent of the tumor. Chemotherapy and 28 rounds of proton beam radiation made the remaining tumor disappear, but she relapsed this summer. Maddie first lost her ability to walk and talk, and has now lost her eyesight due to the tumor pressing on her optic nerve. She is in chemotherapy for the relapse as well as physical and speech therapy now. Despite her long road ahead, 3 year old Maddie still loves to smile and play with her big brother Colin.