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Ocean County Varsity Basketball Player Hasn't Let Debilitating Disease Set Him Back

The community is rallying to support a Jersey Shore teenager with a chronic disease.

Sean

Sean

Photo Credit: GoFundMe

Shannon Macinnes is organizing a GoFundMe on behalf of her nephew Sean from Ocean County, who was admitted to the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia last January, with chronic bowel disease.

The 16-year-old has been battling inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) since he was nine. He's had to endure multiple procedures, monthly infusions, hospital stays and has been in severe pain constantly, said his aunt, who coordinated the GoFundMe.

"We have all been in awe of his bravery, determined attitude and humor throughout the years," Shannon Macinnes said. "He hasn’t let his disease set him back on reaching any of his goals."

Sean is a straight-A student who takes all honors classes, the vice president of his sophomore class, and a varsity basketball player, Macinnes said.

To compound problems, Sean's father was returning to work after three weeks away and was hit from behind on the Walt Whitman Bridge, totaling his car, Shannon said.

"This was the straw that broke the camel's back for me," she said.

"These past few months have been extremely difficult. [Sean] has endured things no child should go through. I know we all feel helpless in this situation."

Click here to view or donate to the GoFundMe.

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