Derek Watson and family

Hi I am reaching out to request support for my cousin, Robert, his wife Tammy, and their family. Their son, Derek, between the ages of 9-10 went through chemotherapy, proton radiation and a very dangerous craniotomy to remove a tumor in his cavernous sinus. He has been stable since the radiation in 2016. Recent MRIs have shown the tumor has returned and growing towards his right eye and very close to his brain stem which is affecting his vision in his right eye. This is devastating as his left eye has complete ptosis (closed) and he only has vision in the right eye since his first tumor appeared. Their family now faces struggles as Derek will face a 30 hour vascular surgery and another craniotomy to try and remove the spread of tumor, prevent the loss of complete vision and further damage to his brain. Throughout Derek’s journey, he has been a strong person as he has overcome many hardships. Derek is a local firefighter and has also maintained being a soccer enthusiast and former D2 soccer player through this experience with vision in only one eye.

During this time, their family has already faced significant wage loss and financial burdens from missing work and are having a difficult time keeping up with household and medical bills. Derek’s upcoming surgeries are scheduled for 4/26 and will be performed three hours from their home. There is a long anticipated recovery and hospital stay. We would be very grateful for any assistance that can support their family at this time as they battle this tumor once again. Thank you all for your generosity.