St. Jude Gives Hope to New York Girl Diagnosed with Brain Tumor at 5
From Soccer Field to St. Jude: Hailey’s Journey
In July 2019, Hailey Stymus was a joyful 5-year-old enjoying a Rochester, New York, summer before starting kindergarten. But one day during practice, she suddenly couldn’t see the ball and ran into a fence.
What seemed like a simple accident turned out to be a life-changing moment: Hailey was diagnosed with a craniopharyngioma, a rare brain tumor affecting her eyesight.
Emergency Surgery and the Search for Safer Treatment
Hailey underwent emergency brain surgery to drain the tumor and radiation to prevent it from growing.
Her family learned about St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, which offered a proton therapy study — a safer form of radiation not available locally in New York.
With a referral from their pediatrician, the Stymus family was accepted within weeks, starting Hailey’s treatment journey at St. Jude.
St. Jude: Caring for the Whole Family
At St. Jude, Hailey received proton therapy, and the family immediately noticed the difference.
St. Jude doesn't just provide medical care — they support families fully. Treatment is free, housing and meals are provided, and travel costs are covered.
READ MORE: CNY Teen Once Fighting for Her Life is Now Building One
For the Stymus family, St. Jude became a home away from home, with yearly follow-ups continuing even after treatment.
Thriving at 11: Fearless and Full of Life
Today, Hailey is 11 and thriving.
Though she lost most of her eyesight due to the tumor, she hasn’t let that slow her down. She tackles ropes courses, zip lines, roller coasters, and gymnastics with fearless energy.
Music is a big part of her life — piano, guitar, violin, clarinet, recorder, and singing are all passions. Her family is now working on getting a guide dog to help with her independence.
A Story of Hope and Possibility
Hailey’s journey is a powerful reminder of the difference expert care, research, and family support can make.
Even in the face of a life-altering diagnosis, kids like Hailey continue to inspire, thrive, and show us what’s truly possible, and that's all because of donors who support the mission by becoming a Partner in Hope.
Become a Partner in Hope
Stories like Hailey's are why we proudly support St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital during our Country Cares Radiothon, presented by Drain Masters.
You can become a St. Jude Partner in Hope and help ensure families never receive a bill for treatment, travel, housing, or food.
Call 800-995-5257 or donate online to St. Jude.
"We are forever grateful to St. Jude and to every single person who donates, especially in our own community."
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Every dollar, every call, and every act of kindness helps write more stories like Anna’s — stories that begin with fear but end with hope.
Frankfort Teen Winning Battle Against Rare Brain Tumor Thanks to St Jude
Gallery Credit: Credit - Polly McAdams