When Gail was 6 months pregnant with her son, she was diagnosed with glioblastoma grade 4 brain cancer. Glioblastoma (GBM) is one of the most complex, deadly, and treatment-resistant cancers. The doctors told Gail she had about a 5% chance of survival after 5 years, but most people pass away before 2 years from diagnosis. 

After receiving such terrible news, she knew she wanted only the best possible treatment, which would be at UAB. The family lived 3 hours from UAB, so driving that route daily for treatment would have been impossible. Thankfully, a UAB social worker referred her to Red Mountain Grace.

For two months, we were able to provide her family of four, including a newborn and 4-year-old daughter, with a fully furnished apartment, while Gail received treatment for brain cancer.

"Red Mountain Grace provided my family with so much more than a place to lay our heads. They decorated a Christmas tree for us and even brought Christmas presents for both of my children. They went over and beyond to make our temporary apartment feel like home."

Red Mountain Grace is the only hospitality housing option in Birmingham that allows small children to stay with their parents. Our mission is to continue being the best option for families like Gail's, allowing families to be together and providing them with community while they are here.

"The day after my deadly diagnosis, the Lord clearly said to me that this cancer would not kill me. Using scripture from Daniel, God told me, 'Daniel got a death sentence too.' And just like He closed the mouths of the lions for Daniel, He protected me from glioblastoma."

Gail is now 5 years and 8 months post-diagnosis and CANCER FREE.

"Only by the mercy of God can I explain defying the odds of a 5% survival rate. My family and I are very thankful for Red Mountain Grace and so many others who supported us during a very tough time in our lives."

Thank you to Gail for sharing her testimony and update.