Teacher's Brain Cancer Battle Inspires Thousands

A Pittsburgh-area educator is back teaching fifth graders, a return to normalcy made remarkable by her three-year battle with brain cancer. Emily Di Cocco experienced a life-threatening grand mal seizure, which prompted doctors to discover a cancerous grade 3 astrocytoma tumor in her brain. Diagnosed seven months postpartum, she underwent surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. Despite the grueling treatment, Di Cocco focused on returning to her role as a mother and teacher.

Following treatment, Di Cocco was unable to immediately return to the classroom, a devastating prospect for her. However, a recent offer from her former principal marked a turning point. Di Cocco also found a new purpose as a brain cancer advocate, sharing her experiences on social media and connecting with a large online community. She now serves as a patient ambassador for Allegheny Health Network, supporting others newly diagnosed with cancer. Doctors have removed the tumor, but ongoing scans are necessary as they anticipate its return.