Dezmond Kimbrel's Journey

If you have ever had the pleasure of meeting Mary and Jeff Kimbrel, you know they are compassionate and diligent people. Mary is a Respiratory Therapist, and Jeff is an estimator for a roofing company. Although they excel in their careers, their focus has always been on their greatest loves, Ava and Dez. Their children are their everything; what brings them joy each second of the day.

Their son, Dezmond, is a free-spirited soul who can light up the room with laughter and smiles. He loves playing his guitar, hiking, boxing, and jiu-jitsu. Dez also enjoys gaming with his friends and spending time with his pets. Typical activities one should be able to enjoy throughout their childhood. Unfortunately, Dez is about to embark on a journey that no child should have to; a fight for his life.

At just 11 years old, Dez was recently diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma of the gums and jaw. This is a painful and extremely rare cancer for a child. The specialized pediatric treatment he needs is out of the state of Hawai'i. They are currently in the process of having Dez's case reviewed by physicians in Texas and Washington. As you can imagine, this loving family will face emotional and financial hardship.

No parent should have to pick between going to work and their child. I am asking for your help to ease the financial burden, so Mary and Jeff can concentrate on being next to Dez throughout this horrifying ordeal. Please consider donating to his fight. Any monetary gift to the gofundme is not too small. For Queen's Health System employees, any PTO donation directly to Mary would be immensely appreciated. Regardless of the donation, we humbly ask that you help spread the word for the Kimbrel family.

It will take all their emotional strength to be there for Dez. For the time being, please allow the family some time to process this situation and to support and fight for Dez's well-being. They will have full access to this gofundme. Please share your thoughts and prayers through this page/social media. Updates will come as treatments progress with Dezmond. Thank you.