Legendary Surfer Kelly Slater Is Raising Money So 4-Year-Old Nixon Can Get Cancer Treatment

On Instagram, Slater shared a photo of Nixon, who has been battling neuroblastoma (a cancer of the adrenal glands) since 2017. His disease is known as “high risk,” meaning that though he has undergone chemotherapy, radiation, and immunotherapy over the past three years his tumors are still present and have progressed. Since he has not responded to prior treatments, his family is raising money for travel expenses from their home in Australia to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York City so he can participate in a clinical trial. In the clinical trial, Nixon will receive seven vaccinations over 12 months. On the family’s GoFundMe, they describe this trial as critical since doctors don’t expect Nixon to survive the next 5 years if he doesn’t get treatment. So far, the fundraiser has raised $38,000 out of its $350,000 goal.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CBxEW9kB6Eo/

The Impact Of Pediatric Cancer On Family

Pediatric cancer can impact a family in numerous ways. Not only financially, but also mentally. When you have a child who is going through cancer, it's difficult to give ample attention to many of life's other demands and that may include nurturing other relationships. Unfortunately, for parents caring for a child with cancer, the strain of the situation can really damage the relationship.

Jayne Wexler, an NYC-based photographer whose son Justice is a childhood cancer survivor, said she saw many couples struggle and eventually break under the intense pressure. Fortunately for Wexler, she and her husband were able to push through the difficulties and stay together. While this was the most difficult challenge in their marriage, it made them appreciate the time they spent together and with their son Justice.

Related: New York City Hospital Suspends Visitation For Children With Cancer During Coronavirus- Guidance For Caring For Pediatric Patients During The Pandemic

"There's always some sort of worry," Jayne said. "…We have to live each day and be thankful for what we have, and it's hard to remember that when you're caught up, especially in New York City, with all the craziness. It's very hard just to sort of enjoy the moment."

Jayne Wexler shares her experience with caring for a child with cancer

Childhood Cancer Success Story: Justice Wexler

The majority of Justice Wexler’s childhood consisted of going through treatment for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). However, thanks to around the clock treatment and support from his family, Justice is now 16 years old and making new memories with family and friends. Even though Justice’s story is a success, his battle with cancer and therapies he underwent took a huge toll on his body.

“He’s a cancer survivor, but now we’re dealing with heart disease,” says Justice’s mom Jayne. “This is because of the chemo. Chemo induced cardiomyopathy.”

Related: Prayers Answered Tiny Zion McAfee, Battling Cancer, Is Doing Well

While Justice admits he wouldn’t want to go through the experience again, and wish it hadn’t happened in the first place, he says it made him gain a whole new perspective on achievements. "If you're ashamed of what you've been through don't be," Justice said. "It makes you stronger as a person. While I would trade what happened to me in an instant … if I'm failing in school, whatever, it's like … I beat cancer, what are you going to do?"

Childhood cancer survivor Justice Wexler gets real about treatment

Learn more about SurvivorNet's rigorous medical review process.