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Our son, Gregory Lowman III—whom we lovingly called Trey—was a bright, energetic, and affectionate two-year-old. He had just started daycare and was thriving. Trey was already potty trained, could recite his ABCs, name his colors, and surprise us daily with how much he understood and absorbed from the world around him.

Trey began having bouts of nausea and loose stools. At first, we were told it was nothing serious—likely just a passing virus, something common in toddlers. But by February, his symptoms grew more concerning. He became unusually tired, started losing his appetite, and just didn’t seem like himself.

We sought answers, but time and again, his symptoms were dismissed or misdiagnosed as routine childhood illnesses. Then, on March 7th, 2023, our world changed forever.

After weeks of uncertainty and unanswered questions, a CT scan finally revealed the unthinkable—a 9x8 cm mass on our precious boy’s brain. Trey was rushed into emergency surgery the very next day. The operation lasted seven grueling hours as a team of specialists worked to remove the tumor.

Just three days later, on March 10th, 2023, we received the devastating diagnosis: Atypical Teratoid Rhabdoid Tumor—ATRT. ATRT is a rare and extremely aggressive form of brain cancer that primarily affects young children. Fewer than 60 cases are diagnosed in the United States each year. It carries a low five-year survival rate, and tragically, there is still no known cure. 

Trey endured an intensive and grueling treatment plan with strength beyond his years. He faced four rounds of high-dose chemotherapy, a second brain surgery, stem cell transplants, and 29 rounds of proton radiation. Each step of the way, he showed a courage and determination that inspired everyone around him.

Though this journey transformed every part of his young life—stealing moments most toddlers take for granted—nothing could ever touch his joyful spirit. Trey remained our bright, loving, and brave little boy through it all.

On November 19th, 2023, Trey completed his treatment. We celebrated his remission with hope in our hearts and gratitude for every day we had with him. For nine precious months, he remained cancer-free.

But then, the unthinkable happened again. The cancer returned August 5th, 2024.

Following the recurrence, Trey underwent a laser ablation brain surgery in an effort to remove the returning tumor. He then received photon radiation, facing each new challenge with the same bravery he had shown from the beginning. Today, Trey remains on palliative chemotherapy. Every day is a fight—a fight he meets with resilience, and the unwavering spirit that has defined his journey from the start.

Inspired by Trey’s unwavering spirit, we’ve created the Grey for Trey Hero Fund—a tribute to his resilience, heart, and courage in the face of ATRT. We are incredibly honored to partner with Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation, a leader in the fight against pediatric cancer. Through this fund, our mission is to raise awareness and provide hope, healing, and support to families walking the difficult road of childhood cancer. 

Donations to the Grey for Trey Hero Fund directly support Flashes of Hope, a program that offers free, professional portraits to children battling cancer—capturing their strength, spirit, and beauty while also funding critical pediatric cancer research.

No family should have to fight cancer alone. Together, we can shine a light in the darkness, support one another, and make a lasting impact—one step, one story, one hero at a time.