During the St. Jude Radiothon, Amy sat down with 12-year-old Crosslyn and her mom BJ, to hear their story. Just a year ago, Crosslyn was 11 when a tumor was discovered after persistent morning headaches and nausea. Their primary care physician ordered a CT scan, which led them to the Children’s Hospital in Tulsa, a local St. Jude affiliate. From that moment, everything shifted. The family’s focus became entirely centered on Crosslyn's treatment and healing.
Crosslyn underwent a full resection through a craniotomy in Tulsa, and remarkably, six weeks later she was back riding her horse, Dolly, and competing again. Shortly after, they traveled to St. Jude in Memphis, where she began 32 rounds of radiation followed by four rounds of chemotherapy. Despite the intensity of her treatment, she requested to drive home every weekend so she could ride her horse and spend time with her family. BJ spoke about the challenges of treatment, including more than 30 transfusions, countless labs, and ongoing appointments. St. Jude covered every expense, allowing the family to focus entirely on Crosslyn's recovery. The hospital’s research programs also became a vital part of her journey. Through her treatments, labs, and care, Crosslyn contributed to research that helps other children around the world, sharing knowledge that saves lives beyond St. Jude’s walls.
Crosslyn spoke about her favorite part of St. Jude, the second floor, a space where doctors don’t enter. It’s filled with music rooms, instruments, 3D printers, sewing machines, and crafts. It’s a place where children can just be kids and enjoy creative activities, including making stuffed animals and working on 3D projects. Throughout her journey, Crosslyn has inspired everyone around her. BJ shared how her daughter often lifted the spirits of nurses and staff, even during her own treatment. One nurse, grieving the loss of a long-time dog, received hugs and laughter from Crosslyn, turning a moment of sorrow into a shared moment of joy.
Crosslyn wears a belt buckle that reads “Never Give Up,” a gift from her friend Brandon, who is also fighting cancer. Her experience has shaped her ambitions. She now wants to become a doctor, working in infusion rooms to help other children the way she has been helped. Her determination and courage are evident to everyone she meets. BJ reflected on the journey, describing it as the highest of highs and the lowest of lows. She emphasized that St. Jude walks beside families every step of the way, providing support, treatment, and hope while enabling parents to focus on caring for their child.
Crosslyn's story is a reminder of the impact St. Jude has on children and families. To help, listeners can go to stjude.org/bobbybones or text Bobby to 785833 to become a Partner in Hope and receive the special edition PIMPINJOY shirt created for the Radiothon. Families like Crosslyn's never receive a bill, and every donation helps save lives and advance research worldwide.