April 1, 2008

The La Salle women's lacrosse team is proud to announce that they have adopted eight-year old Rebecca Poulton as an honorary team member. Becca was diagnosed with a brain tumor called medullblastoma in April, 2004 at the age of four.  

The Explorers and Becca were matched through the Atlantic 10's partnership with the Friends of Jaclyn Foundation, a charitable organization inspired by pediatric brain tumor survivor Jaclyn Murphy. The foundation was created to raise awareness of pediatric brain tumors, as well as improve the lives of those afflicted with a brain tumor and contribute to its research. 

After her tumor was discovered, Becca endured six weeks of adult doses of radiation, followed by a year of chemotherapy. After her initial diagnosis, doctors informed Becca's family that pieces of the tumor had traveled in her spinal fluid and had formed another tumor at the bottom of her spine. Due to the locations of the tumors, doctors declared the cancer inoperable. If they chose to operate, Becca would be brain dead paralyzed for life.

The team first met Becca on March 12^th, 2008 and looks forward to supporting her through the rest of the season and beyond. Team members often email Becca and are looking forward to this April, when she plans to attend one or two home games. La Salle plans to promote pediatric brain tumor Awareness during one of the games and dedicate it in Becca's honor.

For more information on pediatric brain tumors and the Friends of Jaclyn Foundation, please visit www.friendsofjaclyn.org.