Gray for Grey 2021

In early 2016 our lives were forever changed with one, dramatic diagnosis: our then, 7 year old son, Greyson, was diagnosed with a benign brain tumor. Two weeks later he underwent a successful 9-hour surgery that removed most of the cue ball-sized tumor. In May of 2018, a routine MRI showed that the tumor had started to grow again. A second surgery in June 2018 was not as successful. While the surgeon had hoped to remove the remainder of the tumor, essentially curing Greyson, he was unable to. In fact, two-thirds of the tumor remained leaving chemotherapy the next and best option to temporarily stall the growth of the tumor. Greyson also awoke from the surgery with hemiplegia or significant weakness in his left side. At the time, he was unable to sit up on his own or even swallow without choking. Our previously active and otherwise healthy son, could no longer stand, walk or use his left arm and hand. His sight was also further impacted. Because of the location of the tumor, Greyson's optic nerve was irrevocably damaged, leaving him legally blind. He copes very well and is always learning compensatory skills but at this time, medicine does not know how to "fix" this problem. Greyson also underwent a 15-month long chemotherapy protocol, finishing in October 2019, while continuing physical and occupational therapy 3-4 times a week and attending school. The goal of the chemotherapy was to put the tumor "to sleep" for a time and to buy Greyson more time; younger brains are more susceptible to issues caused by many traditional cancer treatments. And in fact, there are now new "Directive Therapies" coming down the pike that could be a much better and safer option, for Greyson! The nature of Greyson's tumor is that it will continue to grow until it is completely removed. That is why a cure is so very important! Treatments manage the tumor, but all come with their own set of side effects. A cure is needed!

Greyson has made great gains since that second surgery re-learning to walk, run, dress himself and maneuver stairs and other uneven surfaces. However, he still needs help, visually, in new environments and with many two-handed tasks that the rest of us take for granted. The trajectory of Greyson's life has been forever changed too. He has not experienced the care-free childhood that every parent wants for their children. He still hasn't been able to play traditional, organized, team sports, as his friends do. He still has weekly therapy and routine doctor appointments including MRI's every few months. But despite the challenges, which he handles with grit and grace, we feel extremely blessed that he is still the same boy we have always loved; smart, active, witty, happy and GROWING (yes, puberty has definitely hit!) with an amazing group of friends! We are hopeful and encouraged by the progress he has made, the absolutely unbelievable support system of family, friends, doctors, nurses and therapists we have around us, and the belief that Greyson is being used for a bigger purpose. It's hard to explain that to an 12 year old who just wants to keep up with friends and feel "normal", but I have faith that one day, he will "get it". In the meantime, he works and perseveres and amazes us all with his energy and happy attitude!

We appreciate each and every one of you and the role you've played in this story! Whether your support comes in the form of a purchase, a donation, a "share" to help spread the word, hug, a prayer or some other way, we could not, would not want to do this without you! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!