Support Franklin Through Glioblastoma

Dear Friends,

In May 2024, Franklin, my brother-in-law, one of the most thoughtful and resilient men I’ve ever known, was diagnosed with a grade 4 glioblastoma. Over the last 10 months, Franklin has battled brain cancer full-time. He has braved surgical procedures at both Mission Hospital and Duke Cancer Center, surmounted weeks of inpatient physical therapy, overcome chemo/radiation treatments, and endured multiple trips to Durham to participate in a clinical trial. Remarkably, Franklin has done so without ever losing his sense of humor, kind consideration for others, or his faith in the power of positive thinking and prayer.

If you know Franklin, then you know the great love he has for his family. My sister, Ashley, and Franklin first met and fell in love in Savannah, GA. Life then took them to Brooklyn, NY to work for nonprofits. Franklin worked for a nonpartisan civic tech organization, and Ashley still currently works for an organization dedicated to bringing arts programs to students of underserved public schools.

In 2018, they married in a beautiful ceremony that united our families. It was clear to me upon meeting Franklins’ parents, brothers, and extended family where his strong faith, character, and values stemmed.

Three months into the pandemic, Franklin and Ashley relocated from NYC, one of the most-impacted cities, to Asheville, NC to be closer to family. There they found a charming older home on a street with friendly neighbors. It was a place they could call their own and start a family. In the winter of 2023, their son entered the world. They named him Miles. I experienced pure joy and love the moment I held Miles as a newborn in the hospital. Keenly intelligent, intrepidly curious, and undeniably hilarious, 2-year-old Miles brings delight to everyone he encounters.

In September 2024, Hurricane Helene hit western North Carolina. Fortunately, Ashley, Franklin, and Miles were able to evacuate and stay with family for three months until drinkable water returned to Asheville. I know they are grateful to be back in their home and to be together. Franklin is continuing to receive infusions every three weeks to keep the side-effects of the disease at bay, and he continues to focus on building his strength by attending physical/occupational therapy multiple times a week.

Their need for financial support is becoming critical, as they confront ongoing medical expenses, the costs of necessary healthcare services, and the need for new home health equipment. Your donation, however much, would mean a great deal to us during this challenging time. Please share this campaign with your friends and family to help spread awareness and raise funds for Franklin, Ashley, and Miles. Thank you for your thoughts, prayers, generosity, and compassion.

With gratitude,

Michael