#JaedenStrong

Born in 2008, Jaeden was raised by all of us. Surrounded by many aunts, uncles, and cousins, he exemplified responsibility, kindness, humility, selflessness and humor early on. Today, Jaeden is still the most thoughtful and caring young man, always putting family first. This past August, we noticed Jaeden had a purple itchy rash on his chest and arms. In mid September, he developed swollen lymph nodes in his groin, neck, armpits, and abdomen - all symptoms for lymphoma... In late September, the doctor confirmed it was indeed cancer, and with additional tests, on October 2, Jaeden was diagnosed with Acute T-Cell Lymphoblastic Leukemia.

Jaeden (15) is the oldest of his siblings, Malcolm (12), Terrence (11), Desmond (9), Elias (7), and sister Everly (2). Currently his dad, Son and stepmom, Annalise are caring for him at their home. During this time, for Jaeden's safety and wellbeing, his mom, Keoudon and brothers (and other family members) have limited visiting time due to Jaeden's weakened immune system. Visits are masked and short to be as safe as possible. Jaeden is no longer going to school and does not plan to return in-person for the remainder of the year. Instead, a teacher does home visits often. While we're glad he has great teachers, doctors, and insurance, treatment is expected to be up to 3 years- the entirety of his high school career.

Since the diagnosis, Jaeden has been in and out of Children's Hospital in Minneapolis. It's been a rollercoaster of emotions. Recently, his parents have been able to manage his fevers and ER visits, and monitor him carefully for seizures. We learned he needs a bone marrow transplant but with Jaeden's type of leukemia, radiation is necessary (in addition to chemo) to kill his bone marrow completely before he can forego a transplant. This process will be... a lot. Jaeden, his mom, dad, stepmom, and younger siblings have been incredibly strong and resilient during this difficult time. Some great news came before Christmas though- Son is a match for Jaeden's bone marrow transplant!

As his treatment continues, we would love your help to return Jaeden's kindness, care and selflessness, lifting away burdens for his parents in the small ways that we can. We are asking for donations to help with bills, gas, transportation, parking, meals, and more. You can also send donations directly to Doua's venmo (@douacheeyang). Any amount is greatly appreciated and will be split evenly between both families.

Please stay updated with Jaeden's cancer fight here . Thank you Son and Annalise for coordinating Jaeden's Caring Bridge site. And thank you all for your love and care for our brave and courageous Jaeden. #JaedenStrong

With immense gratitude,

The Yang Family