Brooks’ Story

Many people know Brooks as the smiling, brave little boy we share about, but we want to share more of his journey because his story is the reason this foundation exists.

Brooks loved all the boy things. Tractors, fire trucks, trash trucks, and Spider-Man were some of his favorites. He loved with his whole heart and gave the best cuddles. Being with him was often the best part of someone’s day. He could turn a day around just by smiling, and he changed people in the best ways just by being himself.

In April, we found out he had a cancerous tumor on his lung that needed to be removed along with a part of his lung. He was back to himself a week later and was able to start oral treatment. During treatment, he didn’t have side effects and still got to be just a regular kid, which we were so grateful for. That summer, he got to do all the fun boy things. camping, county fairs and the state fair, swimming, and eating all the ice cream he wanted. Whatever Brooks wanted, he got. He was definitely spoiled, and for that we are thankful.

In July, we celebrated remission and we felt like we could breathe. But by the end of August, our world came crashing down when we learned his cancer had returned and spread to his brain, and there were no treatment options left. We tried one more treatment while in the hospital, holding on to hope, but ultimately nothing worked the way we prayed it would.

Brooks spent the next two months mostly sleeping. And even in that time, he looked peaceful and comfortable. We never left his side, holding him and cherishing every tiny detail. His long dark eyelashes. His perfect head of hair. His puckered little lips. Even his sweet little toes. Every moment with him was a gift.

He taught us how to be strong even when it’s hard, and how to love with our whole hearts. He is the definition of brave and will always be our superhero.

While sharing this part of his story hurts more than words can explain, his life, his bravery, and his impact deserve to be known. He will always be an inspiration and the heart behind everything we do.