On May 8th, 2026, the Johnson family’s world changed forever. What first seemed like a simple stomach flu quickly became something far more serious when Ben — Kirsten and Simon’s oldest son — continued experiencing severe stomach pain that would not go away.

Ben was taken to urgent care, where doctors performed a series of tests. After further investigation, they discovered a large mass in his abdomen. The family has since received the heartbreaking diagnosis that Ben is battling Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma, a type of cancer.

Since his diagnosis, Ben has remained hospitalized while doctors work to stabilize him and begin treatment. Although the treatment plan is still evolving, it is expected to include intensive chemotherapy treatments, along with both inpatient hospital stays and outpatient care over the coming months. While the road ahead will be incredibly difficult, Ben's prognosis is optimistic.

Over the past weeks, this family has shown unbelievable strength, love, and courage while standing beside Ben through hospital stays, treatments, fear, and uncertainty. No child should have to endure this, and no parent should have to navigate something so overwhelming while trying to manage everyday responsibilities. Supporting Ben through treatment and recovery will require ongoing care in the months ahead, including extended hospital stays, frequent appointments, and one parent spending time away from work to be by his side throughout treatment.

I’m asking for help on their behalf to ease some of the burden during this incredibly difficult time. Donations will help support transportation to treatments and back and forth from the hospital, meals, household expenses, lost income during time away from work, and the many unexpected costs that come with both inpatient and outpatient treatment.

Every donation — no matter the amount — will make a meaningful difference for this family and allow them to focus on what truly matters: helping Ben heal.

If you’re unable to donate, please consider sharing this fundraiser and keeping this family in your thoughts and prayers. Thank you for your kindness, generosity, and support during one of the hardest journeys a family can face.

Should funds exceed what the family needs during Ben's treatment and recovery, they will be donated to a charitable cause supporting children facing cancer.