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Our kids inspire us to fight to defeat DIPG.

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Lucas’ Courageous Journey: A Story of Resilience, Love, and Hope

On a seemingly ordinary Sunday in August, six-year-old Lucas swam happily at a friend’s birthday party, embodying the boundless energy and joy of childhood. But by the end of the day, his family’s world had been turned upside down. In previous days, Lucas began experiencing blurry vision. During the party his parents noticed Lucas’ gait was off. A fall while getting out of the pool led to an unexpected trip to the ER, where an MRI revealed devastating news. Lucas was diagnosed with diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG), a highly aggressive and inoperable brain tumor with limited treatment options and a devastating prognosis.

For Lucas’ parents, Andraya and Pete, the news was shattering. “I can’t believe that a few months ago I had never heard of DIPG, and now it has rocked my world,” Pete shared. Yet, amidst their heartbreak, they have clung to faith, hope, and an unwavering determination to fight for Lucas’ life.

Finding Strength in Small Joys

Despite the immense challenges, Lucas and his family have found moments of joy and connection. During his clinical trial treatment, Lucas showed incredible resilience. Even while navigating setbacks, such as elevated liver enzymes delaying his participation in the trial, he never lost his wit or spirit. His unique sense of humor emerged in moments like creating his “cookie nachos” or making sarcastic comments during strength-building walks.

Thanksgiving brought unexpected blessings, including time with family, therapy dog visits, and Mario Kart competitions with his stepbrother, Isaiah. A holiday weekend spent with relatives featured claw machines, skee ball, and arcade adventures, which brought smiles and laughter back to Lucas’ face.

A Christmas Miracle

Returning home five days before Christmas, the family created a magical holiday season for Lucas, filled with decorated trees, cookie parties, and a surprise Santa visit. For Lucas, the most meaningful gift came on Christmas Day: a chance to dip into his grandparents’ hot tub. It was his first time in water since his diagnosis. With joyful tears in their eyes, his parents watched Lucas beam as he declared, “I feel like a fish again!” Moments like these reminded everyone of Lucas’ remarkable strength and love for life.

A Mother’s Pride

Through every trial, Lucas has displayed a level of courage and determination that inspires everyone around him. “Through the fight for his life, this beautiful boy displays a level of confidence, determination, faith, heart, spirit, and wit that are admirable,” Andraya said. “I am beyond proud to be his mom. My heart overflows with an infinite amount of love for him.”

Holding on to Hope

Lucas’s family continues to stay positive, filling their home with laughter and hope every step of the way. They believe in the healing power of home and the environment they create together. Dedicated to fighting for Lucas, they pray each day for a miracle, a breakthrough, a cure. He is their world.

A resilient fighter, Lucas is filled with determination and faith in his recovery. He often prays for the day he can run, jump, and play again. His love for life, family, friends, and pets remains unwavering, and he continues to brighten each day with his wit and spirit.

 

What is DIPG?

DIPG is a devastating and aggressive brain tumor typically found in children.

What is ChadTough Defeat DIPG?

Learn about our founders, mission, and impact.