Martin Leavitt

On July 28, 2021, we got the call that no parent wanted to get. Our son, Martin, had a Glioblastoma brain tumor on his brainstem. The doctors said he might have 10 to 18 months to live. Martin was able to see one of the best brain tumor doctors in the U.S., Dr. Henry Freidman, at Duke. Martin fought hard with the help of his medical team, family, and friends and lived for almost three years.

Martin's cancer treatment consisted of radiation and years of chemo to treat his tumor. We flew to Duke every twomonths for his scans and met with Dr. Freidman and his team to monitor his treatment. We also saw a naturopath oncologist and added natural supplements and a low-carb,organic diet to optimize his chance of survival. Martin's tumor growth was stopped, and the tumor shrank.

When Martin's tumor was stable, he was able to start doing the things he loved again with his family and friends. He kayaked down the Ocoee, went snow skiing, hiked in Yosemite, and mountain biked on numerous trails. Even though he had some physical limitations, he could do the things he loved again.

Unfortunately, Martin's tumor started progressing in August of 2022. We were unable to stop it and he passed on May 28th, 2024. Martin fought hard to beat his cancer and was an inspiration to so many people. He repeatedly said, "I'm not angry about this. It has afforded me the opportunity to experience intentional relationships like few do."