Join Jeremy's Fight Against Glioblastoma Brain Cancer

My name is Jeremy Herschaft, and I am a 48-year old married father of three beautiful children from Houston, Texas USA. As many in my circle are aware, on Dec. 17, 2024 I was diagnosed with a "Grade 4 Wild Type Glioblastoma" - a highly aggressive malignant form of brain cancer. I am humbly creating this GoFundMe page to ask for help from my worldwide community of incredible colleagues and friends in order to raise awareness on the fight against this challenging disease. This is my story, and I respectfully ask for your help and prayers.

WHO AM I?

Receiving a terminal brain cancer diagnosis is a sobering experience, but it has amplified the incredible gifts of connection and friendship that have already been bestowed upon me during the past 48 years. Cancer has clarified what is important, and reinforced what I can do with my remaining time to support others on this unique path.

My journey began in 1977 along the waters of Charleston, South Carolina, and I was blessed to be raised in a family that encouraged hard work, perseverance and community service. These principles helped me to become an Eagle Scout and later graduate from law school. I was eventually able to achieve my dream of becoming a maritime lawyer, and grateful for the professional mentorship given to me during my law career thus far by my colleagues at Phelps Dunbar, Blank Rome and the world's best energy company (Chevron). I am thankful these organizations allowed me to dedicate a portion of my practice to pro bono public service - helping others in need is a sacred calling.

I am fortunate to be surrounded by many incredible friends and family who have always supported me in these endeavors. That gratitude begins with the love of my life - Meroë Morse - who is one of the world's most compassionate healers. It's been an honor being her friend and partner over the past 18 years and sharing the joy of raising our three amazing children (9, 6 1/2 and 5).

MY BRAIN CANCER DIAGNOSIS AND STATUS

On Dec. 16, 2024, I experienced a loss of left peripheral vision during a 1/2 M training run which sent me to Houston Methodist Hospital. A large brain tumor was discovered in my right parietal lobe. I underwent expedited cranial surgery on Dec 21, 2024 with M.D. Anderson Cancer Center's renowned Houston neurosurgery team. Meroë was not only by my side during surgery - she obtained a piece of my tumor from the OR, placed it in a dry ice cooler, and walked it to an adjoining building so it could be studied to help me and other GBM patients. You would be hard-pressed to find a better definition of love! 

The tumor was removed, and my cognitive and motor abilities remain fully intact. However, I have suffered a 95% loss of left peripheral vision in both eyes, and just completed a very extensive course of radiation and chemotherapy (pic above of my thermoplastic radiation mask). I will be on intermittent chemotherapy for the remainder of my life. Yes, there is a risk the cancer will return, but I will deal with that if necessary. From a professional standpoint, my goal is to return to my normal work and personal life asap. I remain committed to being be the best father, husband, brother, son and friend to my entire community for as long as I am able.

THE PATH FORWARD, AND HOW YOU CAN HELP

This diagnosis is certainly a surprise. Many things are uncertain and scary. But one thing is clear: in the depths of winter, I will transform this into an invincible summer. I still can choose how to respond, and be the best version of myself. To be brave, to lead, to face this with compassion, to be an example to community, and to use this experience for the benefit of others. I am supported by so many beautiful people, my family, my Sōtō Zen Buddhist faith, and my entire circle. I will never take these rare gifts for granted and learn from this experience in order to help others.

People have asked how they can help. I have been encouraged by my worldwide community to create this GoFundMe page, as so many people have asked to help us directly. It’s humbling. Our family is respectfully seeking any donations to help with our future medical, childcare and treatment expenses. We are also inspired to help others on the path, and a portion of all donations will be given to the M.D. Anderson Anne C. Brooks Brain & Spine Center for the specific advancement of Glioblastoma research. We are so uplifted by the outpouring of support, and deeply thank all who are praying for us.

Teddy Roosevelt once challenged us to "spend ourselves in a worthy cause." Challenge accepted.