Our world was turned upside down this week when our beloved son, Braxton, was diagnosed with T-Cell Acute Lymphatic Leukemia (T-ALL). The cancer has spread to his spinal fluid and lungs, requiring immediate and aggressive treatment.

As a family, this is our most unexpected challenge to date. Chris has taken temporary leave from work to help care for Braxton and our family during this critical time. Unfortunately, this means a significant reduction in our household income. Against our best efforts, my job was recently “absorbed” and my newest endeavor was due to begin today (Feb 15th), yet the cards in life we have been dealt as a family have said otherwise.

Yet despite the challenges, Braxton is fighting hard! He's already received two chemotherapy treatments and, aside from some vomiting, has tolerated them well. His chest port was installed without any issues, which allowed for crucial blood transfusions and subsequent treatments. We're thrilled to see his numbers rapidly returning to normal.

What's even more amazing is his spirit! Braxton is staying positive, and his bright smile is starting to shine through again. He's beginning to look more and more like our sweet boy, and it's a beautiful sight.

This month, Braxton turns 19 months old, and we're celebrating this milestone with hope and gratitude for his progress. Our medical team is optimistic that with treatment, Braxton will be in remission by the time he's 4.5 years old.

We're currently expecting to spend another two weeks in the hospital (mandatory), and then, hopefully, we'll be able to return home. After that, we'll continue treatment on a weekly basis, as needed, for the next 2.5 years, which means returning to the hospital 1-4 times a week for “clinicals.”

To protect Braxton from infection, we'll be on strict quarantine, limiting our exposure to the outside world. Your donations will not only help us cover essential expenses like our mortgage and utilities but also enable us to acquire contactless grocery orders or meals, ensuring we can maintain a safe and healthy environment for Braxton during his treatment.

Additionally, to minimize the risk of infection, we've made the difficult decision to pull our eldest child, Harrison, from preschool for the foreseeable future. Harrison still has this year and next before he begins kindergarten, so we're grateful for the extra time we’ve been afforded to focus on Braxton's health. Fortunately, his school will continue to provide learning materials, allowing me to keep him on track with his education while we navigate this challenging time as a family.

We'll be honest - asking for donations doesn't come naturally to us. However, our support systems have encouraged us to accept the help that so many have offered, reminding us that every donation brings us closer to keeping our family together during this difficult time.

Your contribution will help alleviate the stress of uncertain monthly expenses, allowing us to focus on protecting Braxton from infection and further harm, while ensuring his healing process remains on track.

Every donation, no matter how small, is a reminder that we're not alone in this journey. Your support will help us stay strong, together, as a family.

We understand that times are tough, and we don't want anyone to feel obligated to contribute. Our goal is not to take away from your own family's needs, but rather to humbly accept help from those who are able to give. If you're unable to donate, please know that your thoughts, prayers, and well wishes mean just as much to us. We're grateful for your support in any form.

Thank you for your time and consideration.