On January 25, 2021, the Jernigan family’s world turned upside down when 6-year-old Jaxan suffered a sudden seizure. Rushed to Studer Family Children’s Hospital, he underwent an emergency CT scan and MRI, revealing devastating news: brain cancer. This is something no parent or child ever wants to hear. Within days, Jaxan underwent a grueling 14-hour surgery to remove most of the tumor, leaving his family reeling with shock and fear for his future.

Too young to fully grasp his illness, Jaxan tearfully told his father, "Daddy, I don't want to do cancer." They leaned heavily on the hospital’s top-notch care and the comforting presence of Dr. Augustus Perez, whose calm demeanor brought them solace.

During the lengthy and tense surgery, the Jernigan's found unexpected support from a hospital associate, whose presence eased their anxieties. They couldn’t do it alone, and having someone like this was so reassuring in their process. Reflecting on their journey, Lindsey, a family advocate, shares, “Every child’s story is unique. You’re not alone—use every resource available to support your family.”

Jaxan’s resilience and fortitude has guided the Jernigan's through their journey, filling them with hope and gratitude as he remains in remission since 2022.