Meet Nixon - a brave and resilient 8-year-old boy whose kind-hearted personality brightens every room he enters. He has a special way of making friends with everyone he meets, and even through his medical journey, he continues to share positivity and generosity wherever he goes. He often says, “It makes my heart happy” when he sees others happy.

On November 16, 2023, the Valete family’s lives changed forever when Nixon was diagnosed with craniopharyngioma, a rare benign brain tumor that affects only about two children per million each year. Although non-cancerous, this tumor has brought life-changing challenges for Nixon and can affect vision, hormone function, growth, and metabolism, as well as emotional regulation and other essential body functions.

On November 21, 2023, Nixon underwent emergency brain surgery. The tumor was filled with fluid, creating pressure on his brain. Because of its size and location, it was too risky to remove without risking significant brain damage. Thankfully, surgeons were able to safely drain as much fluid as possible and place a shunt to relieve the pressure.

Since then, Nixon has shown incredible strength and courage. He has endured countless MRI scans, blood tests, and appointments with specialists including oncologists, neurosurgeons, ophthalmologists and endocrinologists just to name a few. Despite everything he has been through, Nixon continues to face each challenge with a smile and the same positive spirit that inspires everyone around him.

Nearly three years later, Nixon’s medical team has determined that he now requires major surgery on May 19, 2026 to remove as much of the tumor as possible, as it is beginning to block the ventricles in his brain.

Two to three weeks after surgery, Nixon will need Proton Radiation Treatment for a minimum of six weeks. Unfortunately, this treatment is not currently available in Canada. The best option for Nixon is to receive treatment at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. While the treatment itself is covered, many additional expenses are not, including medications, food, and accommodations if no rooms are available at the hospital or Ronald McDonald House.

Nixon’s greatest wish is to have his sister, Kiara, and both of his parents, Jason and Liezel, by his side throughout treatment. To make this possible, they will need to use the remainder of their vacation time and then transition to unpaid leave.

We are asking for your support to help ease the financial burden on the Valete family so they can focus on what matters most: helping Nixon heal, with the comfort and support of his family by his side throughout his treatment.

Donations will help cover:

-Medications prescribed to Nixon

-Food and daily living expenses in the US

-Accommodations during treatment

-Household expenses while away

Any contribution, no matter the size, will make a meaningful difference. If you are unable to donate, we ask that you please share this fundraiser and keep Nixon and the Valete family in your thoughts and prayers.

Thank you for your kindness, generosity, and support.