Help Us Fight for Maverick

Our sweet boy Maverick is only 5 years old and fighting the biggest battle of his life, a brain tumor.

Just before Maverick turned 5, we noticed troubling symptoms: daily vomiting, headaches, extreme fatigue, weight loss, and our once joyful boy becoming lethargic and withdrawn. His first pediatrician dismissed our concerns, calling it “typical toddler behavior.” But things kept getting worse.

Everything changed when our new pediatrician, Dr. White, ordered a blood test and MRI. Within hours, we received the devastating call: Maverick had a tumor at the top of his brain stem. On April 15th, our world was shattered.

We were rushed to Children’s Hospital in Denver, where he underwent a craniotomy. Doctors couldn’t remove the entire tumor because it was too risky. They feared he might lose the ability to eat, talk, or even swallow on his own. A small sample was sent to pathology, and it was identified as a type of astrocytoma, but due to missing markers, they still don’t know exactly what kind or how aggressive it is. What we do know is it’s growing fast, nearly tripling in size within 3 months, even while on chemo.

Maverick has since undergone additional surgeries, including the placement of a G-tube for nutrition. and a GJ tube may be next. He is now on daily chemotherapy, and the search continues for a treatment that will slow the tumor's growth. The chemo causes constant acid reflux, violent coughing, vomiting and sleepless nights. We’ve tried several medications, but some of the most promising ones are not covered by insurance.

We’ve watched our happy, playful little boy fade into someone who is now in constant pain and discomfort. He’s missed kindergarten and most of pre-K. He can’t go to school, play like other kids or live a normal childhood right now.

Why We’re Asking for Help

I’ve had to take a full leave from work to care for Maverick 24/7. His dad works long hours to keep us going, but the financial strain is overwhelming. We are struggling to cover:

Uncovered medications & medical supplies

Daily nutrition & care through his G-tube

Travel for treatment & second opinions

Lodging near the hospital

Household bills with only one income

We are doing everything we can to fight for Maverick, but we can’t do it alone. If you’re able to donate, any amount helps. Your support allows me to stay by Maverick’s side and give him the constant care he needs.

If you can’t donate, please share Maverick’s story and keep him in your thoughts and prayers. The love, kindness and support from our community mean more than we can ever express.

Thank you for helping us keep fighting for our little warrior.

With love,

Maverick’s family