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Iowa teen fighting cancer for sixth time, turns to experimental treatment

DES MOINES, Iowa — An Iowa family is hoping an experimental treatment can help their son defeat cancer for a sixth time.

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Konner Mongar has been battling cancer since 2005 when he was 4 years old, KCCI reported.

“Konner’s story is inspiring,” Brandon Thomas, Konner’s brother-in-law, told the television station. “He is the most brave and courageous person I know.”

In September, Konner was diagnosed with leukemia again. Because this is Mongar’s sixth time battling cancer, doctors said they were concerned about another round of chemotherapy treatments because radiation has caused his vital organs to deteriorate, KCCI reported.

After consulting with doctors, Mongar’s family found an experimental treatment through a medical center in Scottsdale, Arizona, that wouldn’t harm his organs.

Six weeks of treatment would cost $40,000, with the first week costing $10,000, KCCI reported. The family’s insurance does not cover the treatment, the television station reported.

“We are hoping to take him Monday, but need as much help as we can to get to cover expenses,” Thomas said. “He refuses to give up and has the mental strength to defeat this once and for all.”

A GoFundMe page has been set up for the family. As of Sunday morning, more than $20,000 has been raised.