Jack was diagnosed in August 2014, just after his 10th birthday, with Very High-Risk Pre-B Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia — a form of childhood cancer with an 85–90% cure rate. His treatment began at Monmouth Medical Center and was expected to last three and a half years. Remarkably, Jack achieved remission just two months after his diagnosis.

A year later, he entered the maintenance phase of treatment — his hair grew back, he returned to school, and life was starting to feel normal again. But 17 months after his original diagnosis, the leukemia returned. This time, Jack would need a bone marrow transplant (BMT), and his care moved to the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP).

Despite the relapse, Jack responded well to chemotherapy and immunotherapy and achieved a second remission. But BMT is an intense and often unforgiving treatment, especially for children. Jack underwent multiple rounds of chemotherapy, cranial and full-body radiation, and in May 2016, he received his transplant with a 9/10 matched donor. His counts rebounded quickly, and there was hope. Though recovery was grueling, Jack was showing signs of improvement and was even discharged for a few days.

Then, on Father’s Day, Jack became septic. He was airlifted back to CHOP’s Pediatric Intensive Care Unit. Over the next six weeks, he endured more ups and downs than any child ever should. The treatment had taken a tremendous toll on his body.

On August 2, 2016, at just 12½ years old, Jack passed away. He died in my arms, with my husband Keith holding his hand. I had to do the hardest thing a mother could ever do — I had to tell him it was okay to let go.

Jack faced every challenge with strength, grace, and his unforgettable smile. His spirit continues to guide everything we do. Through the Team Jack Foundation, we honor his life by supporting children like Jack and families like ours.

     He was the light in our family -- with the best smile and the most amazing laugh. He rarely complained. He was kind, helpful and an exceptional kid. He loved the beach, fishing, watching and playing sports. And he was the last child you would ever imagine getting sick.

Jack’s positivity and unwavering optimism have always guided us. Even in the most difficult moments, he showed us the way. He continues to inspire us every day — reminding us that life is about kindness, hope, and love.

His light will forever be missed, but never forgotten.