Seana Rossi started training brazillian jiu jitsu in spring 2008 under GMA member Toronto BJJ black belt Jorge Britto. Already proven to be a true fighter, Seana showed her incredible spirit from her first days on the mats. Seana could be found training day and night and soon began to compete. At her second competition, Seana broke her arm, Professor Britto admits not all students would return to the sport after a break so early in their career. However, Seana was mat side watching her teammates practice technique and did her rehab religiously. Although she could not compete, she would travel to competitions to cheer her teammates on and be in their corner. Seana was always the loudest person in the crowd. As soon as she was cleared she was drilling technique with always a smile on her face and a sparkle in her eye.
In spring 2009 Seana was informed that her cancer had returned. This marked the beginning of a long battle that has touched the lives of many people. Seana soon underwent chemotherapy and surgery, but continued to train as much as possible. Seana would not let the cancer stop her from doing the things she loved most. While completed chemotherapy she competed in Grapplers Quest, the Toronto Jiu Jitsu Classic and had an inspirational showing at American Nationals. Seana touches the lives of everyone she meets and gives true meaning to the word warrior. To honor her spirit Toronto BJJ founded the Seana Rossi Award, first presented in December 2011, to be presented to the student at Toronto BJJ who best displays the warrior spirit that Seana displays every day. Seana continues her battle with cancer today, undergoing many cycles of chemotherapy. Slowly the cancer has taken away her ability to train in the sport she loves. However, Seana, her friends family and team have not given up.
Today the most promising treatment for Seana is a drug by the name of Avastin. This drug works by cutting off the blood supply to the tumors so they can no longer grown and survive. Treatment for one month is $3500.00 (per year costs $65,000.00) and is not covered by extended health insurance or other medical coverage. We are asking the jiu jitsu community to band together like it has before to help in a time of need.
To help support donations can be sent directly by email money transfer to seana_elizabeth@hotmail.com. To donate through check, money order or other (bank transfer, etc) please contact Melissa Biscardi through facebook or via email melissa.biscardi@utoronto.ca.