Collin was a social butterfly who loved to make people laugh. He was passionate about karate, from chopping boards in half, to using swords, to sparing on the mats and showing off fancy footwork. He and his buddies also loved to bust out their fancy footwork at dances. He was a fan of Alabama Football and everything that comes with it. Going fishing or enjoying jubilees in Mobile Bay, AL were his favorite summertime activities.  

At the age of 4, and then again at 5, Collin was diagnosed with T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. He had a complete bone marrow transplant, and became cancer-free for 12 years. He was able to live life to the fullest with his sweet and loving spirit that captivated others and made them smile and feel loved in turn. 

Unfortunately, in January 2023, Collin’s parents noticed dime-sized lump on his neck. They thought it might be a swollen gland, and even with antibiotics it continued to grow. When they looked into it further, Collin was diagnosed with cancer again – this time, stage 3 mucoepidermoid carcinoma. 

The tumor doctors removed from his neck was huge. Then during the two weeks after receiving plastic surgery, Collin found his cancer was growing again. Proton therapy was his best option, so he began the six-week treatment twice-a-day. Every 21 days, Collin also had targeted therapy. He was also in the hospital for pneumonia. Sadly, Collin passed away in June 2023.

Collin was truly his family's hero. He was the strongest kid they had ever known, and his grandparents even called him Superman. Collin’s mom, Amanda, wants others with childhood cancer heroes to know that “God is always with you! You're never alone! You truly find strength when you don't think you can go anymore."

Through Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation, Amanda believes in being able to find a cure for children with cancer. Seeing them able to grow up and give testimonies of overcoming such a giant tragedy is awe-inspiring. 

Information provided by Amanda K., Collin’s mom 
Updated April 2024