Help Hunter Kick Cancer’s Ass

Hello, my name is Domonique and I’m a super mom of a little boy named Hunter. Hunter was born full term at a ripe 11 lbs. on 5/2/19. When Hunter turned 6 months he was diagnosed with neurofibromatosis type 1 (a rare genetic disorder that neither me, his dad or little brother carry). NF causes benign tumors to grow on the nervous system along with learning disabilities, vision problems and other abnormalities. We’ve monitored Hunter very closely for changes and for the past 4 years, he’s been great until this summer. In June, we did our first MRI to monitor a plexiform neurofibroma on the base on his back. Thankfully it is not attached to the spine but during that MRI we took a peak at his brain and they found an optic nerve pathway glioma. We were told to monitor for any changes and within 6 weeks Hunter lost complete mobility of the right side of his body. He cannot use his hand, arm, or leg. We were not prepared to hear the doctor say, “your son has cancer”. Kids with NF don’t usually get cancer but his brain tumor turned cancerous.

On 8/18/23 we had to rush Hunter to the emergency room and they admitted him for a brain biopsy. We haven’t received the full report from the biopsy but Hunter continues to decline. We were waiting to start a certain medication to reduce the tumor but we have decided to move forward with traditional chemo because of how bad Hunter is struggling.

As many people know, we just added an addition to our family, little Atlas. We used all of our FMLA leave for maternity/paternity leave for the baby. Hunters battle is just beginning. After surgery Monday, he has to do chemo once a week for 15 months. Because of the potential side effects Hunter will not be able to go to school full time so one of us will have to take off of work to be there for him.

So many people ask, “how can I help?” And truthfully it’s been incredibly difficult for our family. I wouldn’t wish this on my worst enemy. But if you can donate anything, even a dollar, we would greatly appreciate it. To know Hunter is to love Hunter. He’s the sweetest kid you will ever meet. Please help Hunter kick cancers ass. Thank you.