Spencer

 In 2001, at age 2, Spencer was diagnosed with a pituitary brain tumor. He kept telling his mom that his head hurt and he was vomiting. She knew something was wrong.

Dr. Moss removed his tumor. However, Spencer basically has no pituitary function. He takes growth hormone and other hormones, and will need to do that for life.

Spencer has handled it all very well. He loves to come and get his MRIs because he loves anesthesia. He calls it "blasting off." He also loves going to the cafeteria afterwards.

Spencer is very outspoken and is a crack up! He's part of the Hospital's Children's Advisory Board. His big push is to get an arcade for the Hospital. He knows so many people at the Hospital and loves how when he comes he always gets a stuffed animal.

What are some of your favorite things?

I like baseball, skateboarding, drums, building legos, my family and drawing.

How has your diagnosis affected your life?

I have to take pills every day and a shot every night to grow. But I rock at hide-n-seek. I'm doing good now. My next MRI is in two years.

What was your longest hospitalization?

When Dr. Moss and Dr. Shafron took out my brain tumor I was in the Hospital for a long time.

What is your favorite thing about Phoenix Children's?

Room service and anesthesia.

What is the most difficult aspect of your treatment? When it hurts.

Is there someone, or some aspect of care that really stands out in your mind as helping you during your stays at Phoenix Children's?

Dr. Moss and the pet therapy dogs.

Is there something that your diagnosis has changed how you look at things?

I'd rather be out in the wild than go to school.