Hi, my name is Brenden Nesbitt, and recently my nine-year-old brother, Cooper, was diagnosed with Acute Mixed Lineage Leukemia. I am humbly fundraising to help support my parents and family with the medical and everyday expenses that come with this unexpected and frightening journey.

On the evening of December 13th, while Cooper was playing in a hockey game in Eugene, Oregon, we noticed something was off. Cooper is usually a high-energy, go-getter on the ice, but that night he told my mom he felt exhausted and had a painful headache. Still, being the incredible teammate and friend that he is, he didn’t want to leave his team.

Later that evening, my parents took Cooper to the Emergency Room, where we received the news no parent ever wants to hear. The compassionate and incredible staff at Riverbend Hospital quickly began arranging transportation to Doernbecher Children’s Hospital in Portland, preparing for Cooper’s immediate transfer. That long drive to Portland at 2am in the morning is one our family will never forget.

Since arriving at Doernbecher, the medical team has been nothing short of exceptional. They have taken the time to help our family understand Cooper’s diagnosis and the treatment plan ahead.

Cooper has been diagnosed with Acute Mixed Lineage Leukemia, a rare form of leukemia involving both myeloid and lymphoid cells. While uncommon, we are confident he is in the best possible hands with his oncology team.

Cooper will begin an intensive, month-long course of chemotherapy and will remain in Portland for the foreseeable future, away from his home in Redmond.

This sudden change has been incredibly difficult. Cooper is an avid athlete who plays both hockey and baseball. He takes great pride in being the best goalie and catcher he can be. He’s an absolute rockstar, and it’s heartbreaking to see him unable to play and do the things that bring him so much joy.

We are deeply grateful for the love and support we’ve already received. Whether through donations, prayers, words of encouragement, or simply sharing Cooper’s story, every bit of support means more than we can express. I will continue to share updates as Cooper begins this long road ahead.

God bless,

Brenden