This GoFundMe is to support our friend Aaron, who was recently given devastating news. Cancer has struck him. Doctors have told him that even with chemotherapy and radiation, his life expectancy may be 2–3 years.
After experiencing symptoms for several months, Aaron finally received a diagnosis: a tumor located in the medulla oblongata the lowest part of the brainstem, at the base of the skull, which connects the brain to the spinal cord. The location of the Tumor does not allow for Biopsy or Surgery to remove. The initial diagnosis is Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG), a rare and aggressive tumor that primarily affects children, most commonly between the ages of 4 and 11. It is extremely rare in adults, but in Aaron’s case, it did occur. One doctor even believes this tumor may have been present since birth.
Aaron shared a video recently, and it was difficult to watch my friend struggle to speak. That’s not the Aaron I’ve known for years.
I first met Aaron at Century 21 Masters, where we both sold homes. Aaron is the kind of person who would lead classes, answer anyone’s questions, and pour energy, knowledge, and sometimes even a needed push into those around him. He genuinely cared about helping others grow.
On a personal note, I remember when I had a deal that was about to fall out of escrow due to a major issue. Aaron overheard what was going on, stepped in, and shared his experience with a similar situation. We collaborated, found a solution, and were able to keep the deal together. That’s who Aaron is. No matter what was in it for him, he has always had a heart to help.
When I spoke to Aaron about creating this GoFundMe, I told him I was doing it because it’s on us his friends, family, and community to do what we can to support him during this incredibly difficult time. This will not be an easy road, but Aaron is facing it with faith. He believes God can perform miracles and is doing everything in his control through diet and treatment while trusting God with the rest.
Knowing that this type of cancer primarily affects children, Aaron said something that really puts things into perspective:
“If this was supposed to take me out at 10 years old and I made it to 39, what a blessing. Fear and anger can wreck havoc on my emotions, but gratitude is the great equalizer. I stole that from Tony Robbins hehehe.”
If Aaron has ever impacted your life, please consider donating if you’re able.
When I got off the phone with him, he left me with this:
“This is going to be one heck of a comeback story.”