On December 2nd, life changed in an instant for the Smathers family. Their sweet 10-year-old son, Alexander or "AJ", was diagnosed with Ewing Sarcoma, a rare and aggressive bone cancer. What began as unexplained pain quickly led to being admitted to Children's Hospital in Pittsburgh, where they found a spinal tumor and followed with a Ewing Sarcoma diagnosis.

He is scheduled to start chemotherapy and port placement early next week while the family faces the many decisions that no parent ever dreams of making for their child.

As you can imagine, the emotional, physical, and financial toll is overwhelming. The coming months will include:

Frequent hospital visits and long treatment days

Time away from work

Travel costs to Pittsburgh and back

Meals and everyday necessities for the family

Many people have asked, “How can we help?” This fundraiser is one of the most tangible ways to support them as they focus entirely on caring for their son and walking through this heartbreaking journey.

If you’re able, any donation—big or small—makes a difference. Every dollar raised will go directly toward supporting the family’s immediate needs during treatment.

If you cannot give financially, your prayers and encouragement mean just as much. Please keep this family close in your thoughts as they navigate the unimaginable.

Thank you for loving them, supporting them, and standing with them during this fight.