James Dobson

James Dobson

James was a youthful and giving 13-year-old when he passed away peacefully in his home, after an eight-year battle with Brain Cancer. Despite spending most of his life in treatment, he never stopped fighting.

To celebrate his 12th birthday, James asked for letters in lieu of gifts. The news spread across the nation, and James was surprised with over 6,000 cards and gifts from people that didn’t even know him—including professional wrestler John Cena and University of Alabama football coach Nick Saban. James became an inspiration to his family, friends, and thousands of strangers who remember him for his determination and positive attitude.

James was eventually put on a ventilator and needed more constant care. His mother took a leave of absence to become a full-time caretaker, but the single income provided by his dad was not enough to cover expensive medical costs. A Message
of Hope Cancer Fund was able to help cover these costs, which helped the Dobson family focus on spending time together.



In addition to the already burdensome costs of treating cancer, when a child or family member is critically ill, one parent may have to leave his or her job to care for them. This makes it difficult for families to cover expenses they previously did not have difficulty with, such as utility bills, rent or mortgage payments, rising gas costs, and other everyday expenses. MHCF offers families assistance with some of these costs.