Contributed by Kristina Kremer.

Caitlin Elizabeth Zaugg turned 16 last April 30th. She is currently a junior at Patchogue-Medford High School and really loves school.

She was, and is currently taking AP and honors courses, and as of now really doesn't have a specific major. She loves Disney, all kinds of music, and she is almost as sarcastic as her father. She has the best laugh, is so very generous to all of those around her, and is extremely compassionate. She is truly an inspiration.

On August 29th, Caitlin was diagnosed with Osteo Genic Sarcoma (a pediatric bone cancer) that affects children, male and female, usually between the ages of 11 and 16, but some cases has affected those younger and as old as mid 40's.

The Zaugg's entire world changed, as you could only imagine. That day they started going through a battery of tests, and on September 1st, after her bone biopsy, it was confirmed.

They were informed that this is a 100 percent treatable and 100 percent curable cancer with a 70 percent chance of it never coming back.

The Zauggs thank God every day for those numbers, and are so truly thankful. The reason this is curable is because of the aggressive treatment protocol.

So far Caitlin has endured five months of chemotherapy treatments, which makes the strongest so very weak, nauseous, and vulnerable to all the viruses and bacteria that are in everyday life.

Caitlin found out first hand when she developed an infection at her wound site and had to stay in the hospital for 13 days. She has been on a course of IV antibiotics three times a day, which are given to her at home just to ensure this doesn't happen again as per the infectious disease team.

Upon completion of her first course of chemotherapy, Caitlin had surgery on December 28th, where they removed the tumor, which was located on her knee and distal femur. They then added titanium to replace portions of her distal femur and tibia, and reconstructed a new knee out of synthetic material. Now that the surgery is complete, Caitlin will go through physical therapy, about another five or six months of chemotherapy, and possibly radiation.

Needless to say this has been an overwhelming experience for Caitlin and her family in all ways; mentally, physically, spiritually, and financially.

The Moose Family Fraternity, Patchogue Lodge 518, is hosting a fundraiser for the Zaugg family on Saturday, Feb. 11 from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. at their 507 Long Island Ave, Medford location. All proceeds will aid with the continuing care required for Caitlin. For information regarding the fundraiser, or to donate, please visit www.moosefamilyfraternity.org, or contact Kristina Kremer at 631-714-4374.