By Max Wexler
20-year-old Michael Cramer has teamed up with his mother, Ashlee, to create a series of TikToks exploring his extraordinary battle against a rare form of cancer. The duo created the account last year when Michael received a shocking diagnosis of hepatosplenic lymphoma, a type of fast-growing non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Cramer received the news five years after his father, Patrice, passed away from diffuse large B-cell lymphoma.
Read More Despite this crushing blow to the Cramer family, Michael and Ashlee decided to stay positive and encourage others in similar circumstances to do the same. Michael and Ashlee's joint account, @michaelandmomfightcancer, contains extensive documentation of the treatment process and showcases the family's use of physical fitness as a source of inspiration. Prior to undergoing treatment, Michael and his brother Steven, 21, were part of the Olympic development team for windsurfing. The Miami Beach natives traveled the world competing in the sport. Throughout their journey, Ashlee motivated her son to workout every day. In turn, they encourage their followers to do the same. The Cramers also use their years of experience to spread awareness and information. They can often be seen answering questions from users regarding Michael's disease and how to navigate treatment. Michael received a bone marrow transplant from an overseas donor in August 2020. As one can see through their content, he has faced a number of setbacks since then. Currently, he shows no signs of cancer but is working through a complication of chronic GVHD (graft versus host disease).
Throughout every setback, the Cramers have remained strong, optimistic and dedicated to helping others. The TikToks they have produced should serve as an inspiration to anyone, regardless of their relationship to cancer.
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