While visiting family in Lima, Peru, Fabi and Steve were woken at 7:30 AM on June 23 to every parent’s worst nightmare — their son, Milo, was having a seizure. They rushed him to the emergency room, where a CT scan was performed. Unfortunately, it didn’t provide enough answers, and by 2:30 PM, Milo was sent to a neurosurgeon for further evaluation.

An MRI was urgently ordered — and to get the clearest picture possible, Milo had to remain awake for the entire scan. At 8:15 PM, the results came in: a 3-inch brain tumor. The doctor didn’t hesitate. Surgery began immediately.

The operation lasted over 5 hours. It was incredibly complex, but the surgeons were able to remove the entire tumor. Milo was then moved to intensive care, where he remained for 4 days — with only one parent allowed by his side at a time due to hospital rules.

In less than 12 hours, the Fox/Hemmerling family’s world was turned upside down. But Milo showed incredible resilience. Even in the hospital, his big personality, sense of humor, and deep love for the Lakers and Dodgers shone through.

Once stable, the family was allowed to return to their home in Peru while they waited for test results on the tumor. On Monday, July 14, they met with the pathologist who informed them that further molecular testing was needed — and that it had to be done back in the U.S.

Just days later, on Friday, July 17, the family returned to California carrying not just luggage, but scans, reports, tumor samples — and hearts full of hope.

As they face the unknown road ahead — more tests, treatments, decisions, and emotional challenges — we want to come together to support them in every way we can.

Please consider helping the Fox/Hemmerling family through:

Prayer

Monetary donations

Positive thoughts & well wishes

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Steve and Fabi are incredibly grateful for the outpouring of love and support. They may not be in a place to respond to messages at this time, so please visit this page for updates and ways you can help, instead of texting or calling directly. Your kindness is deeply felt and appreciated.

Thank you for standing by them and being a light during one of the darkest times in their lives.

With love and hope!