Help Carson Beat Cancer

Our nephew, Carson, has been diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of cancer—hepatosplenic T-cell lymphoma. He is the 24-year-old son and only child of his parents, Steven and Lowellen.

For the past 9 months, Carson has been battling this cancer with so much courage, grace, and hope. He astounds us everyday.

Carson started his treatment in his hometown of Salinas. However, as his condition worsened, his care team at Salinas Valley Memorial Hospital decided that it was necessary for him to be transferred to UCSF Medical Center where he’d undergo not only surgery, but also lifesaving chemotherapy treatments.

With good fortune and a dedicated team of providers, Carson’s spleen was removed, which thus enabled his body to withstand multiple treatments. To say that Carson suffered would be a gross understatement. Yet, he endured, as always, with his innate bravery, stoicism, and sweetness.

During this time, his friends and family rallied to find a donor, raised awareness about bone marrow transplants, and reached out to their followers on social media encouraging people to test and see if they’re a match. As Carson’s story gained traction in the local news and beyond, The National Marrow Donor Program (NMDP) created “Text ‘CarsonStrong’ to 61474” to bring attention to Carson as a “searching patient”.

As the search for a donor continues for so many other patients, his UCSF doctors have expressed the urgent need to move forward with the transplant despite not finding a willing donor. Though not a “perfect match,” Steven will be Carson’s donor, and the procedure will now take place at the City of Hope Cancer Center in Duarte, CA.

Because Carson’s condition has manifested new challenges, his UCSF team believes that the unique treatment regimen provided by City of Hope better fits Carson’s complex needs.

Carson and his parents will have to relocate once again—this time, hours and hundreds of miles away from not only their core family unit, but also their jobs.

This move and the new treatment plan present a precarious financial strain on the family. We have created this GoFundMe campaign in order to alleviate the costs of housing, essentials, and Carson’s care and recovery.

Your love, support, and generosity speak volumes beyond measure.