Earlier this summer, fraternity brothers from the Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ) chapter at Western Carolina University presented a check for over $4,300 to members of Atrium Health Levine Cancer Institute’s orthopedic oncology care team. The donation will benefit the Marroum-Kardous Orthopaedic Oncology Fund established at Atrium Health Foundation to advance the research and treatment of sarcomas—a rare group of cancers that begin in the bone or soft tissues. The gift was extremely personal for the young men as two of their fraternity brothers have been diagnosed with osteosarcoma in recent years.
Pictured (L-R): Joe Beeson, Parker Cain, Rodrigo Guevara, John di Zerega, Aidan McInnis, and Nate Craven
Parker Cain (front left) was diagnosed with stage IV metastatic osteosarcoma in 2019. After receiving 10 months of chemotherapy at Levine Cancer Institute, Parker underwent a revolutionary surgery, known as a Rotationplasty, conducted by Dr. Colin Anderson, his orthopedic surgeon. The procedure successfully removed his tumor and knee, while sparing his leg and mobility. Soon after receiving his prosthesis in September of 2020, Parker learned to walk again. Parker’s story is one of hope and perseverance, and he attributes his excellent care and recovery to Dr. Colin Anderson, Dr. Michael Livingston, Dr. Jeffrey Kneisl, Dr. Joshua Patt, and other members of Atrium Health’s sarcoma team who continue to further advance sarcoma treatment at Levine Cancer Institute.
Tragically, Parker’s fraternity brother, Trevor Arrowood, passed away from osteosarcoma earlier this year at the age of 25. Trevor was loved and revered by many for his strength and commitment to serve. After graduating with honors from Western Carolina University and later the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy, Trevor bravely served his community as a police officer with the Rock Hill Police Department. This gift is a tribute to his life—one that will help advance research for other adolescents and young adults in the greater Charlotte community.