Help Braden Fight!

We are Tom and Teri Franzen, from Gifford, Illinois. On August 24, 2023, our world was turned upside down, when our 25-year old son, Braden, was diagnosed with Stage III non-seminomatous testicular carcinoma. A couple weeks later, we found out it had metastasized to both of his lungs, liver and retroperitoneal lymph node. A young man, who had just completed nursing school the year before and had only been at his first nursing job for a year, was ready for a fight. On October 2nd, Braden started a regimen of three chemo drugs, which would be given over 4 cycles, each cycle being three weeks. Our plan is to finish right before Christmas 2023 and celebrate the holidays with a new look on life. A life that appreciates God, family, friends, humor, and love. A life that does not take anything for granted.

Braden has been a true inspiration. His strength and positive attitude has been unwavering. We are completely in awe of his physical, mental and emotional fortitude. Tom, I, his five siblings, his girlfriend, friends and family are so extremely proud of him.

When his sister and brother-in-law brought up the idea for a fundraiser for him, the first thing he said was, “Should I give the money back to cancer research”. So instead of looking out for himself, his instinct was to think of others, a testament to his character. Although this has been a very personal experience and at times not something Braden wanted to share, I feel that God has given Braden a purpose. Sometimes it is the only way to make sense of this. He has been hesitant to share his circumstance but does agree if his story can help one young man, then his trial was for a reason.

It is a rare cancer, but it is curable if caught early. Tom and I encourage all parents to have a talk with their sons. Express to them to have no shame; and for all their children, whether girls or boys, to listen and know their bodies. When something does not seem right, speak up.

We appreciate every single one of you!! And thank you!!

Love,

The Franzen Family,

Tom, Teri, Zack, Taylor, Josh, Eloise, Morgan, Braden, Bryce and Emma

The more you Know

Testicular cancer is only 0.5% of all new cancers in the United States.
Only 3-4% of all cancers in men are testicular cancer.
9,000 men between the ages of 15-30 years, are diagnosed per year.
6 per 100,000 men per year are diagnosed with testicular cancer.
Only a 0.4% risk for men in their lifetime of developing this type of cancer.
American Cancer Society

Donate via cash, check or Venmo (QR code ). Each donation of $5 dollars or more will receive an all weather sticker! Simply add your mailing address in Venmo or pick up in person. Please make checks payable to Braden Franzen.
We will be selling pre order shirts, hoodies and sweatshirts with a special front and back print. Each purchase will also include an all weather sticker. Prices will be listed below along with the date the preorder will end and orders must be paid for by. All proceeds will go to help Braden with current and future medical expenses.