Theo Kramer was a kid who marveled at the moon, danced with zero inhibitions, and knew the names of every truck in existence. He ran fast, felt deeply, laughed loudly, and had a big, confident voice that carried across any space he was in. He was effervescent and magnetic; to know Theo was to love him.

On February 1, 2023, at only 3 years old, he was diagnosed with an aggressive inoperable brain tumor called Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG). In the blink of an eye, we were told we had less than a year left with our son.

Within days of diagnosis, Theo lost the ability to walk, talk and swallow, and was in critical condition. Over the next 9 months, we fought the battle of our lives, pursuing every treatment option under the sun to bring our son back, restore his quality of life, and try, against all odds, to save him. With radiation, alternative therapies, and cutting-edge drugs still in trial, Theo’s tumor shrunk significantly and he slowly began to improve – regaining control of his body, his ability to speak, and eventually, his ability to walk. The 9 months of his illness were filled with magical experiences and heartbreaking setbacks, trips around California and trips to the hospital, deep joy and deep pain. Each day felt achingly precious. Every hour carried infinite weight. 

On October 30, 2023, the day of his fourth birthday, Theo unexpectedly suffered a massive brain bleed from his growing tumor and lost consciousness for the last time. He died peacefully and free of pain, surrounded by the people who loved him most.