Like so many NF families, life was nearly perfect for Carol Ann, her husband, Nathan, and their family, until one day she began to suspect something wasn’t right with their youngest son, Zachary.
At the age of 19 months, Zac was diagnosed with neurofibromatosis (NF1). At the time, Nathan was serving in Iraq, so Carol Ann had the further challenge of facing this diagnosis alone while also caring for their other children. Zac underwent years of treatments including countless rounds of chemotherapy and radiation, and numerous surgeries. Unfortunately, when his tumors recurred and became malignant, he lost his battle at the age of 11. Right to the end, he never wavered in his faith or positivity.
In 2015, Carol Ann wrote a book called The Believer, which shares the true story of the life journey of her son, an extraordinary child whose uncommon strength and spirit touched the lives of everyone who ultimately contributed to his fight for life.
Read more about The Believer on Amazon.
“Zac is a one of a kind kid. He is an inspiration and an incredible example for others to learn from. In reading his courageous battle with brain cancer it is empowering and eye-opening to witness how far one can go when you have the support of family and friends and a strong faith to sustain you.”
-Kevin James, actor
