Hello everyone, this is Brian.

Stephen passed away peacefully on Thursday, June 22nd at home surrounded by myself, Hayden, Ellie, his mom and two brothers. While it is so hard not having him here, we all have enormous peace with the fact that he is no longer suffering. 

This morning I reread my original post from April 15th of 2018 which was just four days after Stephen's diagnosis.  In the past five years and two months, I have witnessed the most courageous fight of ones life. From the very begining Stephen never said why me, it was always why not me. I believe with all my heart his attitude is what gave him the strength to fight the fight of his life. Stephen endured over 153 rounds of chemo, 10 surgeries and several experimental treatments. All of those which helped keep him alive. He did it all with humor and enormous grace. We were beyond blessed for MD Anderson and the hope they provided along with cutting edge treatment. The doctors and nurses became like family to us. They celebarted every win, no matter how small, and were by our side when we felt defeated. I can't thank our frineds and family enough for all your support.  You truly lifted us up in more ways than you will ever know. 

We managed to still enjoy life, being gratfeul for everyday he was given. We celebrated with friends, family and traveled as much as we could by ourselves, and with our kids. We had absolutely no regrets! The four of us made it to Africa last summer which was a bucket-list trip.  We made memories that will truly last a lifetime.

One of my favorite quotes about cancer; "Cancer is a part of our life, but it's not our whole life." "There's almost always something to smile about."

Rest in peace, my love!