Meet Desmond Akin: A Childhood Brain Cancer Warrior and Wraparound Services Grant Recipient

At Hope for Miracles, we are honored to support families facing the unimaginable challenges that come with a childhood cancer diagnosis. During Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, we are especially grateful to the Adirondack Foundation, in partnership with the Bill & Lisa Powers Family Fund, for making it possible to provide two families with a Wraparound Services Grant.

Today, we are proud to introduce our second grant recipient family—the Akin Family.

Desmond's Journey with Pediatric Brain Cancer

On May 1, 2025, the Akin family received the phone call no parent ever wants to hear.

After experiencing dizziness, nausea, and vomiting, Desmond underwent an MRI that revealed a tumor located on his brainstem and extending down his spine. He was diagnosed with a Grade 3 Ependymoma, a rare and serious pediatric brain tumor.

Within hours of receiving the diagnosis, Desmond and his family were at UVM Medical Center in Vermont meeting with a neurosurgeon. Surgery was scheduled for the very next day.

Despite the overwhelming circumstances, Desmond's medical team moved quickly and provided exceptional care. Thanks to the skill and dedication of his neurosurgeon, Dr. Ducis, the entire tumor was successfully removed—an outcome that represented the very best hope for Desmond and his family.

Continuing the Fight

Following surgery, Desmond completed six weeks of proton radiation treatment at Mass General Hospital. As his family awaits his first post-radiation scan, they continue to face the uncertainty and challenges that often accompany a childhood cancer journey.

Through it all, Desmond has demonstrated remarkable strength and courage, supported every step of the way by his loving family and medical team.

Creating Joy Beyond Cancer

When Desmond's family learned they had been selected to receive a Hope for Miracles Wraparound Services Grant, they were deeply grateful.

Their hope is to use the grant to create a fun-filled family experience once Desmond is feeling well enough to enjoy it. These moments of togetherness provide families with an opportunity to focus on joy, connection, and making memories beyond hospital visits and treatments.

At Hope for Miracles, we believe these experiences are an important part of the healing journey and help families find hope during difficult times.

Thank You to Our Generous Partners

We extend our sincere gratitude to the Adirondack Foundation and the Bill & Lisa Powers Family Fund for helping make these grants possible. Their generosity allows us to provide meaningful support to families navigating childhood cancer and its many challenges.

Sending Our Best Wishes

To Desmond and the entire Akin family, we wish you a wonderful family adventure filled with laughter, happiness, and unforgettable memories when the time comes.

Most importantly, we continue to send our thoughts, prayers, and encouragement as Desmond moves forward with his recovery and upcoming follow-up scans.

Your strength, resilience, and hope inspire us all.

💛🎗️🙏

From everyone at Hope for Miracles, thank you for allowing us to share your story. We are honored to stand alongside your family and support you throughout your journey.