Shelby's Story

Shelby Clinton
Age 12
Arkansas Children’s Hospital
Brain Tumor

In December 2003 Shelby Clinton wasn’t counting down the days until Christmas, he was counting down the days until brain surgery. Shelby was undergoing surgery at Arkansas Children’s Hospital to remove a large tumor that was growing inside his brain.

Chemotherapy and radiation began immediately after the surgery. Through it all, Shelby maintained his positive, outgoing attitude. “He has endured surgery, chemo, radiation and multiple MRIs, and I have never heard him complain,” says Sue Hibbs, one of his caregivers.

Shelby, now 12, is cancer-free. He loves to play soccer and basketball in his hometown of Sherwood, Ark., and is a stellar student. In fact, Shelby maintained As and Bs throughout his time at Arkansas Children’s Hospital.

His medical experiences have helped him determine a future career—helping children with cancer. “I want to be a doctor working with cancer patients,” said Shelby. “My doctor at Arkansas Children’s hospital wasn’t just a doctor that gives medicine. He cares for his patients and makes them feel better. I want to be a doctor like him when I grow up.”