Help Paxton Heal: Aplastic Anemia Battle at 15

Our dear friends Ryan and Lisa Barringer are facing every parent's worst nightmare. Just three months ago, their 15-year-old son Paxton was diagnosed with Aplastic Anemia, a rare and serious condition where the body stops producing enough blood cells. It affects only about 15 Canadian children each year.

Since his diagnosis, Paxton has undergone extensive chemotherapy and just this week, received a life-saving bone marrow transplant at SickKids Hospital in Toronto. This brave young man has been pulled from school, isolated from his friends, and confined to home or the hospital for months. He’ll remain in the hospital for at least six more weeks and then must stay in Toronto for an additional two months for close monitoring. He could be out of school for another year or more due to his fragile immune system.

Paxton’s mom Lisa, a dedicated nurse, has been off work since his diagnosis and will likely remain off for another 6–8 months. She’s currently staying at the Ronald McDonald House, even with this, the family must cover most of the costs out-of-pocket. Meanwhile, their home and the rest of the family, Ryan and their two daughters (Bodhi and Indi), remain in Almonte, Ontario.

Ryan, a professional animator (and my friend for 27 years), continues to work as much as he can through this crisis. As his employer and lifelong friend, I can tell you firsthand: Ryan is the kind of person who shows up for his family, his friends, and his team. He’s someone who would give you the shirt off his back without hesitation. Now, it’s our turn to show up for him.

This GoFundMe has been created to support the Barringers during this unimaginable time. Our goal is to help cover living expenses in Toronto, lost income, medical-related costs, and ongoing recovery support for Paxton. Every dollar will help ease the burden so this incredible family can focus on what truly matters - helping their son heal.

Paxton is a quiet, courageous teen who’s been dealt a tough hand. He’s lonely, isolated, and scared, but he’s not giving up. And neither are we.

Ryan and Lisa, you are loved. You’ve been there for countless people. It’s our turn to help you.

To everyone who donates: THANK YOU! Your generosity is a lifeline. If you’re not able to give, please consider sharing this page with your network.