Heather Pinero

In Memory of Braxton Pinero (Son)

August 18, 2015 - March 28, 2022

Neuroblastoma

In 2018, Heather's youngest son, Braxton, was diagnosed with neuroblastoma. Braxton completed 5 rounds of chemotherapy, a stem cell transplant, proton therapy radiation, and 6

months of immunotherapy to be declared as having no evidence of disease (NED).

As a result of the treatment received, Braxton developed an aggressive pulmonary fibrosis, a rare side effect from the treatment he received. His condition quickly deteriorated from 2020-

2021, and Braxton and his family ended up moving from Texas to Pennsylvania for the ability to have Braxton listed for a double lung transplant at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia.

In January of 2022, Braxton went inpatient for the final time to receive a tracheostomy in hopes of prolonging his candidacy for a lung transplant. He remained inpatient from January until

March, overcoming respiratory failure, and participating in physical, occupational, art, music and pet therapies, in order to remain a strong candidate for transplant.

With Covid restrictions still in place, Braxton was not allowed to have visitors during this time, which was very difficult for Braxton and his family. Due to Braxton's incredible efforts and

strength, he remained listed as an active lung transplant recipient until his passing on March 28, 2022.

For this painting, Heather chose to represent the light and brilliance of love that continues even in the darkest depths of grief. While our hearts carry on the love for our lost loved ones, we carry grief and sadness with us every single day.