Sebastian was funny, handsome, and full of charisma — the kind of child who could light up an entire room with his laughter. He dreamed big, loved learning about U.S. presidents, telling jokes, and dreamed of becoming a famous YouTuber. He often said he had a “community heart,” and he lived every day proving it — always thinking of ways to help others, make them smile, and spread kindness.
On his 10th birthday, January 17, 2024, Sebastian was diagnosed with Diffuse Midline Glioma (DMG), an aggressive and currently incurable brain tumor. Doctors told us he might have only one year left, two if we were lucky. But from the moment we heard those words, Sebastian chose to live — not in fear, but in courage and joy.
He underwent 30 rounds of radiation, two brain surgeries, and faced seizures and left-sided weakness caused by the tumor. Still, he never complained. He loved all of his doctors and nurses — even proposing to a few along the way, charming everyone with his humor and spirit. He joined the DIPG-Vax clinical trial at CHOC Children’s Hospital in Orange, California, and experienced almost seven months symptom-free. When the tumor progressed again in December 2024, he faced it with the same bravery he had shown since day one.
Throughout his journey, Sebastian lived his dreams. He traveled to Paris, France, where he saw the Eiffel Tower and the Mona Lisa, and to Washington, D.C., where he received a private tour of the White House — an unforgettable experience for a boy who loved history and presidents. He was also baptized, his faith in Jesus shining as a beacon of hope and strength for everyone who knew him.
Sebastian celebrated his 11th birthday surrounded by friends and family, a milestone his doctors once thought he might not reach. Just a few weeks later, on February 6, 2025, our brave boy passed away, surrounded by love. Even in his passing, Sebastian gave the greatest gift of all — the gift of hope. He donated all six of his brain tumors to research through the Gift from a Child Foundation, so that one day, another family may hear the words “there is a cure.” Though he is no longer here with us, we see him in everything green, his favorite color and in every panda, his favorite animal.
Sebastian’s heart continues to inspire others. His courage, his humor, and his love for life remind us daily to lead with compassion, faith, and hope. He was, and forever will be, our light, a boy with a community heart who changed the world with his smile.
Thank you for supporting more than 300,000 kids worldwide who will be diagnosed with cancer this year. By sharing the gifts of your time, talent and money with the St. Baldrick’s Foundation, you're supporting research to give all kids with cancer a better chance for a cure.
