Case was diagnosed with DMG on November 15, 2024. A month before his diagnosis, he began holding his head down to the right, and a few months earlier he had experienced some double vision. When the clinic could not see him quickly, his family took him to the emergency room, where they began to uncover what was happening.
Since then, Case has faced extraordinary challenges. He is losing his ability to talk and his balance is affected. He has undergone brain and femur biopsies and has received radiation on his head, spine, arms, legs, and pelvis. More radiation to his head is scheduled. The road has been hard for both Case and his mom. His mother, a dental hygienist, has not worked since his diagnosis and drives an hour and a half each way to the American Family Children’s Hospital in Madison, Wisconsin. Life has shifted completely. Case once loved school, self-defense class, time with friends, and staying active. Their pets are cared for by others and the family home feels different without the everyday bustle they once enjoyed.
Through it all, Case remains the most amazing son a parent could hope for. He has a heart of gold and is kind, thoughtful, loving, and funny. He is motivated and curious, loves learning and showing how smart he is, and finds joy in arts and crafts, video games, card games, and board games. He adores his two cats and dog and worries about friends and family with a deep sense of care. Case loves Jesus and his family, delights in traveling, discovering new places, and trying new foods, and dreams of visiting Japan one day. Music, dancing, and singing all bring him happiness. More than anything, he loves simply being a kid and being alive.
Case is incredibly strong and determined to fight this terminal cancer. He continues to persevere with grace, always trying to please God, himself, and the people he loves.
Hope session by Kara Reese Photography | Facebook | Instagram