For more than two years, Henry’s family made a two-hour commute from Georgia to Jacksonville so he could receive lifesaving cancer treatment. Diagnosed with leukemia at age 7, Henry endured chemotherapy, countless injections and a lengthy hospital stay. These demands required major adjustments at home and work, creating emotional strain and financial uncertainty for the entire family.
With a chemotherapy port implanted in Henry’s chest, even simple traditions were disrupted. During vacations, Henry had to sit out while his siblings swam in the Altamaha River, a cherished summer pastime. Like many families facing pediatric cancer, daily life shifted as time, energy and income were redirected toward Henry’s care.
Throughout Henry’s journey, the Tom Coughlin Jay Fund walked alongside his family, providing steady support during one of the most challenging periods of their lives. Beyond easing the financial stress that comes with a childhood cancer diagnosis, the Jay Fund helped ensure the family could focus on Henry’s health, their well-being and staying together through it all.
The Jay Fund helped Henry reclaim some of the simple adventures of childhood by sponsoring his trip to Camp Boggy Creek, a special camp for children with serious medical conditions. There, he made new friends, participated in activities like boating and horseback riding, and experienced his first summer away from treatment in two years.
Recognizing the importance of family connection, the Jay Fund created opportunities for Henry’s family to step away from the pressures of cancer and simply be together—from Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp games to the annual holiday party.
“Those outings allowed our family to take time away from Henry’s rigorous treatment schedule and just have fun together,” his mom, Amy, shared.
Through a partnership with the Jacksonville Jaguars, the family was also invited to training camp, where they watched practice and met players.
“It was a chance for our family to create core childhood memories that the kids will look back on fondly,” Henry’s dad, Braden, reflected.
In spring 2025, Henry proudly rang the bell to mark the end of his treatment. Now embracing a new chapter, he has returned to the river—swimming, fishing, and spending unburdened time with his parents and three siblings. He recently started playing baseball for the first time in years, too–he pitched and struck out two batters!
