In October 2023, my son Austin started having discomfort in his hip, which quickly progressed to debilitating pain. After many tests and doctor visits, an MRI revealed a tumor growing in his hip socket. We were sent to NYC, where a biopsy confirmed that Austin was suffering from Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis (LCH), a rare cancer-like condition that affects only a handful of children each year.

In February 2024, we learned of a second tumor on Austin’s brain. This urgent development meant he needed surgery to place a port in his chest and begin a rigorous chemotherapy treatment. Austin bravely underwent chemotherapy for 13 months. In November 2024, he was rushed to the children’s hospital, his body on the verge of going septic from an infection in his port. After five days of IV antibiotics and port removal, we were finally able to come home. We are so grateful to our loving family and friends who helped care for Austin’s siblings and pup while we were away.

Austin’s treatment ended in July 2025. He was finally able to attend school regularly, feeling healthy and strong, and looking forward to the joys of childhood again. We monitored his progress with scans every three months. In May 2026, we received a phone call that there is a new mass on his brain. We are now preparing for another journey toward health. With your help to cover medical bills and travel costs, our journey can be just a little easier. Any support you can offer means the world to us as we fight for Austin’s health and happiness.