This is Riley. He’s 14 years old and loves drawing, playing with his two little brothers, convincing his parents they need another cat, and staying up late gaming until he falls asleep.

What most people don’t know is that Riley has a tumor inside his spinal cord. It’s moderate in size but life-altering: it threatens his ability to walk, use the bathroom on his own, or even breathe without machines. With an unsuccessful surgery to remove it, his tumor board has determined that chemotherapy is his best chance to shrink it.

In just the past three months, Riley has faced life-changing news, undergone an eight-hour spinal surgery, and pushed through intensive physical therapy to walk unassisted again. His strength is incredible, but his journey is far from over.

Now, before chemo begins, our family faces a decision we thought he wouldn't have to make for at least another decade. Chemotherapy may permanently affect Riley’s ability to biologically have children. With his treatment plan expected to last at least a year, the chances of this side effect being temporary are slim. If Riley ever wants to become a father, this may be his only chance to preserve that possibility.

Here’s where we need your help:

His state insurance doesn’t cover anything related to fertility. The initial cost of preservation is a few thousand, plus anywhere from $200 to $800 per year for storage. For a family of five, that’s a steep and unexpected expense.

Any amount you can contribute would mean the world to us and help give Riley a choice about his future.

Update: now that we have paid his procedure and storage fees anything else donated will go toward any medical expenses and treatment travel. thank you for helping our son throughout this trying time.