Everett is a content 6-month-old baby. He loves to show off his gummy smile and coo.

Because Everett’s biological father, aunt, and grandfather all had retinoblastoma, his family had him checked right away. Unfortunately, doctors found a tumor over ultrasound at 37 weeks gestation. Everett started treatment at 2 weeks old. 

Everett received chemotherapy at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia which he finished in November 2024. Then newer seeds of cancer developed, but Everett is countering them with intra-arterial chemo and follow-up eye examinations. At only a few months old, Everett is his mom Keirsten’s hero. “He is my son, and has saved me mentally from so many things,” she said. “He is the light of my world and makes me smile every day.”

Kiersten says that at the beginning, a childhood cancer diagnosis seems complicated and frustrating, but wants to ensure others who may be experiencing a diagnosis that it mellowed out for them. Having support is a big help.

One of these support systems Everett’s family has is the Travel For Care program from Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation. “Alex’s Lemonade Stand has been a huge help to us in providing hotels and covering travel costs for Everett’s treatments,” Kiersten said. Today, the family can focus on the most important thing in their lives: Everett’s health.

Information provided by Kiersten H., Everett’s mom
Updated April 2025