American Cancer Society projects nearly 142,000 new cancer cases in individuals under the age of 45 in 2014. Many of these cases will occur in individuals at peak reproductive age, 25-35 years. The battle to overcome cancer, alone, is a difficult and trying one. Unfortunately, many of these individuals will also face future infertility struggles; however, in many cases this secondary struggle can be avoided with proactive fertility preservation. Recently, such a story was seen in front of thousands prior to a St. Louis Cardinals baseball game at Busch Stadium in St. Louis, Missouri. Story via KSDK-TV Few people get the chance to throw out a first pitch at Busch Stadium, even fewer get to make a huge life announcement while still on the field. Tim and Casey Nelson aren’t like most people. “It’s a heckuva way to make a statement, I can say that!” Tim said with a laugh. The married couple from Carrollton recently learned they’re expecting a baby next spring. The news was made even sweeter by the fact that they almost missed their chance to have children. Last fall, Tim was diagnosed with colorectal cancer. The Nelsons were warned the radiation and chemotherapy treatments needed to fight the cancer would likely leave them unable to have children. Unwilling to accept that option, Casey encouraged her husband to take proactive measures. Tim made a fertility donation to a sperm bank before his treatment began. Then, they focused their full attention on beating cancer. The following months were difficult. Tim’s cancer spread into his lungs. The couple endured months of treatment and a surgery. He credits his family and community for supporting him during the toughest moments. “And here we are today,” he said. “It just makes you proud that your family and friends and the people you surround yourself with get you through the terrible things you encounter,” he said. During their cancer journey, the Nelsons found a famous advocate. Cardinals relief pitcher Jason Motte has the ” Jason Motte Foundation” Strike Out Cancer campaign. “He’s making a difference,” Nelson said. “He’s a special human being and what he does touches a lot of lives.” The couple connected with Motte on several occasions. Nelson was invited to throw out the first pitch at Busch Stadium Tuesday night, during the Strike Out Cancer Night. That’s when Nelson asked Motte if he could make an announcement. Casey joined them on the field with a sign. “Anytime anything good happens we say, ‘Take that cancer!’ So I thought that would be a good way to announce the baby!” she said. “When Tim got done throwing the first pitch, Jason let us come out onto the field and stand with us while we took a picture and held the sign.” Story Continued….. If you are somebody you care about has been recently diagonsed with cancer and is at reproductive age contact Dr. Ahlering and the Institute for Fertility Preservation at MCRM 844-41-4BABY for an immediate consultation to discuss available fertility preservation options.]]>