A Race Against Time and A Critical Treatment Out of Reach

Dear friends, family, and compassionate supporters,

I'm Dru, mother to Pierson, a 24-year-old with an unbreakable spirit and dreams as big as his heart. Just a month ago, our world shattered when Pierson was diagnosed with pineoblastoma, an extremely rare and aggressive brain cancer that strikes fewer than 100 adults each year. This devastating tumor, located deep in the center of his brain, has already robbed him of precious time – but with your urgent help, we can give him a fighting chance through specialized treatment that could save his life.

A Sudden and Devastating Diagnosis

It began in late July 2025, when Pierson started experiencing severe headaches and nausea. He went to the ER, where a CT scan revealed a mass in the center of his brain. Just four days later doctors performed an invasive biopsy to confirm the diagnosis: pineoblastoma. They also inserted a channel to drain the fluid, easing his severe headaches, vision distortions, and nausea for about two weeks. But the relief was short-lived. By August 18, the pressure surged back worse than before, landing Pierson in the ER. Two days later surgeons implanted a shunt from his brain to his abdomen to manage the buildup of fluid in his brain. Despite these interventions, the tumor is growing rapidly, and oncological neurosurgeons have deemed it inoperable due to its precarious location. Every day without the right treatment brings more risk – but there's hope in a cutting-edge therapy that's out of reach without your support.

A Critical Treatment Out of Reach

After exhaustive consultations, experts agree: craniospinal irradiation (CSI) via proton therapy is Pierson's best – and perhaps only – chance to target the cancer in his brain and spinal cord without devastating his body. Unlike traditional radiation, which would blanket his entire body in harmful rays and lead to severe long-term side effects, proton therapy delivers precise beams that spare healthy tissue. This could mean fewer complications, better quality of life, and a stronger fight against this aggressive disease. However, this life-saving treatment is not available locally, and Pierson’s insurance won’t cover it. The self-pay cost for the six-week regimen is estimated at $60,000, plus travel, lodging, and meals during treatment.

Why We Need Your Help Now

The tumor is growing quickly, and doctors have stressed that Pierson must begin proton therapy within 2-3 weeks to have the best chance at fighting this cancer. Without this treatment, he would be left with traditional radiation, which poses significant risks to his already fragile health. The financial burden of self-paying for proton therapy, combined with travel costs to a specialized center, is overwhelming for Pierson and his family. That’s why we’re turning to this incredible community for support. This is a race against the clock – your help today could literally save his life.

Meet Pierson

Pierson is a 24-year-old with a contagious smile and a passion for life. A basketball enthusiast, he’s always been the first to cheer on his team or hit the court with friends. His dream was to attend college to become a sports physical therapist, helping athletes recover and chase their goals. Above all, Pierson is a devoted son, brother, and friend who cherishes his family and loves God. He’s also a compassionate soul who has rescued animals in need, giving them the love and care they deserve. Even now, amid the pain and uncertainty, Pierson stays positive, cracking jokes to lift our spirits and holding onto hope, determined to fight.

How Your Support Will Make a Difference

We're aiming to raise $75,000 to cover:

Every dollar brings Pierson closer to the treatment he desperately needs. All funds go directly to Pierson's treatment via this campaign, with full transparency through regular updates. If you’re unable to donate, sharing this campaign with your network can make a tremendous impact. Every gift, shared story, and prayer counts.

A Message from Pierson

"Hey everyone, it's Pierson. These past weeks have been the toughest of my life, but your support keeps me going. I dream of getting back on the basketball court, hugging my family without worry, and saving more furry friends. This proton therapy is my shot at that – but I can't do it alone. If you can donate, share my story, or say a prayer, it means the world. Let's beat this together. Thank you – from my heart to yours."

Join the Fight – Act Now to Save a Life

The clock is ticking, but together, we can help Pierson access this life-saving treatment. Your donation, no matter the size, is a step toward hope and healing. Please consider donating today and sharing this campaign on social media (tag friends, post in groups – every share brings $13 in donations on average!), and help us spread hope.

Together, we can defy the odds. Thank you for being Pierson's heroes in this critical moment. With endless gratitude and unyielding hope, Dru and Pierson's Loving Family