Braxton's Fight: A story of courage and community

[A special Thank You to Braxton's Mum for sharing your journey with us all] My world shattered when they said "medulloblastoma." I later found out that medulloblastoma is a rare and aggressive type of brain tumour. It felt like the ground beneath my feet just disappeared. My little Braxton, this vibrant, energetic eight-year-old boy who loved basketball and Pokémon, was facing a battle I never imagined.

Fear was my constant companion. But then, something incredible happened. Our community rallied around us. His classmates sent cards overflowing with colourful drawings and encouraging messages. Video messages from the Manawatu Jets Basketball team, friends, and family, all started to pour in. It felt like the entire town was holding us up.

Starship became our second home. The nurses became like family, and the play therapist was a magician, bringing a smile to Braxton's face even on the toughest days. We learned to find joy in the smallest things - a full meal after days of nausea, a single step he took after weeks of rehabilitation.

Braxton is my hero. He faced every challenge (surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy) with courage. Watching him lose his hair was truly heartbreaking. It felt like a cruel reminder of the battle he was fighting. But he faced it head-on, bravely shaving his head with his uncle's clippers. That moment, despite the sadness, showed me his incredible strength and resilience. He wasn't letting cancer define him.

I initiated walking around the hospital grounds at night. Under the stars, I would whisper my fears and hopes to the night. It was a small act of self-care, a way to keep moving forward, one step at a time.

Braxton's 9th birthday was unforgettable. A convoy of supercars arrived, and he rode in his favourite. He played golf at the Orlando Country Club with the Manawatu Jets basketball team and their mascot, Benny. He received a trophy from his mum: "Awarded to Braxton for showing strength and resilience in his battle with a brain tumour. You beat cancer!"

Then, the Hurricanes visited! TJ Perenara even sat in Braxton's gaming chair. They gifted him a signed t-shirt, making his day truly extraordinary.

Braxton taught me the power of resilience. He taught me that even in the darkest times, there's always hope. And that love, fierce and unwavering love from our community, can conquer anything.

Today, Braxton is thriving. He's back to playing basketball, his laughter filling our home once again. He's a reminder that even in the face of the toughest challenges, hope and healing can prevail.