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Mom's Love: Fighting DIPG, One Day at a Time
18 Oct
Summary
- Townes was diagnosed with a rapidly growing brainstem tumor.
- His parents chose hospice care to maximize their time together.
- The family advocates for DIPG awareness after his passing.
Townes began showing concerning symptoms in October 2023, including staring spells and changes in speech and behavior. Despite parental concerns and repeated visits to doctors, a definitive diagnosis was delayed.
In September 2025, a CT scan revealed a large, inoperable brainstem tumor, identified as diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG). This diagnosis, given when his mother was 28 weeks pregnant, drastically altered the family's future.
DIPG is a fast-growing pediatric brain tumor with an average survival of around two years. Townes's oncologist estimated he had only four to twelve weeks to live.
The family opted for hospice care to cherish their remaining time. Townes passed away on November 14, 2025, shortly after his fifth birthday, surrounded by loved ones.
His mother, now raising his newborn brother Angus, continues to advocate for DIPG awareness, honoring Townes's memory and ensuring his life's impact continues.
