Cory Los Schumacher is gearing up for his senior year at Saint Leo’s University in Florida where he studies mathematics and hopes to one day become a college level math professor. As a former RPCI patient (nearly 20 months into remission), Cory stays motivated in his efforts to raise funds for and remain involved with his Roswell Park family.

In the summer of 2009 Cory was diagnosed with PXA, a type of brain tumor. He was only 18 years old.

“The brain tumor was in the speech area part of my brain,” said Cory. “The side effects of what could've been and what happened are totally different. I have some speech problems and occasionally mix up a few words now and then, but again what could have happened, including losing my life, didn’t happen. For this, I still commend Dr. Lazlo Mechtler with his accurate diagnosis, and the skilled hands of Dr. William Fenstermaker's surgical team for keeping me mostly intact.”

Due to the excellent care he received, Cory says he wants to do whatever he can to help the Institute and other cancer patients.

Last year, Cory planned and hosted three Yteam Cure fundraisers­, including a faculty basketball game at Saint Leo’s, raising $1,100 for RPCI. He chose for his donation to specifically benefit brain tumor research to help people who suffer from the same type of cancer he survived.

In June, Cory volunteered as a route guide at The Ride For Roswell. He has also celebrated life with other survivors at RPCI’s Cancer Survivors Day.

“My aunt and I both survived cancer and received treatment from Roswell Park Cancer Institute,” stated Cory. “My doctors and the other staff at Roswell were incredible. I am a young survivor, but regardless if I’m 1,300 miles away in college or 13 miles away in Orchard Park, or even halfway across the globe, Roswell Park Cancer Institute will forever hold a special place in my heart. I will always wear a silver ribbon pin with every outfit to remind me of the tough times I went through. I am grateful I am alive and well to tell my story.”

Check out Cory's RPCI tattoo!