About Matt
When a child is diagnosed with cancer, the entire family's world changes.
Our mission is to bring comfort, connection and hope—funding new research for better treatments and cures, supporting families through their toughest days, and spreading awareness to make a difference. Every donation directly supports osteosarcoma research and families in need, turning compassion into action.
OUR INSPIRATION
Matt was the bright light of our family—a source of joy, kindness, and unwavering faith. He had a way of making everyone around him feel seen and valued, always giving more of himself than he ever asked in return. His laughter and smile could fill a room, bringing warmth and energy wherever he went.
Matt lived life with passion and purpose. He loved spending time with his family and friends, playing basketball, watching his favorite sports teams, and surrounding himself with music that lifted his spirit. He was constantly challenging himself—setting goals, creating vision boards, and finding new ways to grow. Matt dreamed big. He had so many hopes and plans for the future, each one a reflection of his determination, optimism, and heart.
EVERYTHING CHANGED
In May 2022, our world changed forever. Matt was diagnosed with osteosarcoma at just 18 years old—a rare and aggressive bone cancer we had never even heard of before. At the time, he was in his senior year of high school, captain of his varsity basketball team, and full of excitement for the future. During basketball season, Matt began to feel pain in his left shoulder. He assumed it was a minor injury from weight training and was hoping it would heal with time. But the night before his senior prom, we received the devastating news that brought us to our knees: Matt had osteosarcoma.
TREATMENT
He had to postpone college to begin an intense treatment plan that included chemotherapy, radiation, surgery, and immunotherapy. Throughout it all, Matt faced every challenge with incredible strength, courage, determination, and positivity. Sixteen months later, just one week after completing treatment, scans revealed the cancer had spread to both lungs. We were heartbroken, but Matt never gave up. The next ten months were unimaginably difficult—we pursued every option, even relocating to California for three months in search of new treatment options. No matter how hard the days became, Matt's faith, determination, and love never wavered.
MATTY'S PROMISE
On June 27, 2024, Matt was rushed to the hospital and doctors feared he might not survive the night. But in true Matt fashion, he defied the odds. Once he gained consciousness the next day in the ICU, he motioned for a piece of paper and pen and wrote: “Find a cure, Tom Tam (a modality he believed in), Help people, Foundation in my name.” That was Matt—selfless, brave, and full of love until the very end. He didn’t want anyone else to suffer the way he had.
Nine days later, on July 6, 2024, surrounded by his family and an abundance of love, Matt’s brave journey came to an end. His light continues to guide us every day, inspiring our mission to carry forward the hope and compassion that defined him.
HOW WE MOVE FORWARD
Losing Matt has left an emptiness in our lives that can never be filled, but his light continues to shine in the love he gave, the people he inspired, and the hope he left behind. Matt taught us the power of hope and the importance of action. Though his life was far too short, the light he brought into this world continues to shine through the lives he touched and the mission he inspired. His courage, compassion, and unwavering spirit are the heart of our mission—and the reason we strive to raise awareness, fund research, and help families facing osteosarcoma. Matt's story is our mission. His Legacy is our Promise.
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Together, We Can Make a Difference
When Matt was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, we had never even heard of it. No family should face this disease without answers, support, or hope. Osteosarcoma is an uncommon and fast-spreading bone cancer affecting mostly children, teens, and young adults. By learning about it, sharing awareness, and funding research, we can change outcomes for families facing this fight today.