Joseph, known by loved ones as “JoJo”, was a happy baby since birth. He was a chatterbox at less than a year old and loved turtles, water, and his family. He was a perfectly healthy baby who hit all his milestones. Then one day, in March 2024, his parents noticed his eyes were deviated downward, and he couldn’t seem to track anyone or anything.

Joseph was rushed to the hospital where they discovered his head had a circumference of 44.5 cm instead of the normal 42.5 cm for his age range. This led to a CT scan that brought devastating news: he had a malignant brain tumor at only 4 months old.

Joseph underwent two rounds of chemotherapy but stayed his happy and hopeful self the whole time. “Even through a high dose of chemo, he still smiles!” his mom, Dymon, said.

His nurses didn't think he would make it to his 1st birthday, but Joseph was resilient. He not only saw his 1st birthday, but also nine days after.

Sadly, Joseph passed away on December 8, 2024. "He fought so hard and had a smile on his face until the very end," shared Dymon. "I am proud of my son and I am at peace knowing there is no more suffering."

He is his family’s hero because of his radiant positivity. He had been through so much at such a young age but was always full of hope.

To other families who may also be facing a childhood cancer diagnosis, Dymon wants to offer comfort. “It is a tough journey,” she said, “but with love, support and prayers you will get through this!”

Dymon wishes there were more resources for children so young and is interested in starting a foundation of her own someday. She said Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation (ALSF) means everything to their family and that “It is foundations like ALSF that help our little heroes and their families!” She is hopeful that there will be new and better treatments for kids of all ages.

Information provided by Dymon B., Joseph's mother
Updated December 2024