Lisa Berkheimer never imagined that becoming a grandmother would lead her family into a battle for survival so soon. She is a devoted mother to Christina, a loving bonus mom to Tony, and a proud grandmother to two boys who mean everything to her heart.
Everett was born on November 11, 2025, a healthy and content baby with a gentle nature. For the first five weeks of his life, he did what babies are meant to do. He smiled, rested peacefully, and filled his family with joy. Then, just days before Christmas, everything changed. Everett suddenly lost the use of both of his arms and was rushed to the hospital. Doctors soon discovered the cause was a tumor pressing on his cervical spine.
On December 26, Everett underwent emergency surgery to remove the tumor. Surgeons and specialists were stunned. A tumor of this nature had never been seen in a baby so young by any doctor involved in his care. When the biopsy results came back, the news was devastating. Everett was diagnosed with Malignant Extrarenal Rhabdoid Tumor, an extremely rare and aggressive cancer.
In the days ahead, Everett faces more tests than most adults will endure in a lifetime. A PET scan, MRI scans of his brain and spine, and a spinal tap are all scheduled as doctors work to understand the full extent of his illness and plan the path forward.
Through it all, his parents Christina and Tony remain by his side, doing everything possible to protect and support their son. Tony had only just secured full time employment in December and has already exhausted all his paid leave during Everett’s surgery and hospital stay. Christina is on unpaid maternity leave, uncertain when she will be able to return to work as Everett’s needs grow more complex. The family also hopes to travel north to Erie, Pennsylvania, so Everett can meet relatives who have been waiting to hold him since his birth.
Everett is not facing this journey alone. His three year old brother Beckett adores him, offering quiet comfort in ways only a child can. Since surgery, Everett has lost the use of his left arm and has not yet regained the strength to lift his head. He has just begun physical therapy and continues to struggle with feeding, requiring care from digestive specialists to help him gain weight. Each day brings new challenges, but also small victories that his family clings to with hope.
The funds raised will go directly toward medical bills, travel costs, and easing the financial burden caused by missed work. Every act of kindness helps carry this family through an unimaginable season. Your support gives Everett the best possible chance to heal, grow stronger, and one day meet all the people who already love him more than words can express.