Local five-year-old who battled rare brain cancer remembered as “a fighter to the end”

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — We have a heartbreaking update to report. A local five-year-old boy battling a rare brain cancer has died.

Action News Jax first introduced you to Jaxen Mathis and his mom Rowenda in May 2019, shortly after he was diagnosed with Diffuse Intrinsic Pontin Glioma, or DPIG, a tumor in the brain stem.

According to DIPG.org, the average survival range is 8 to 11 months, but Jaxen survived for two years.

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Jaxen Mathis Five-year old, Jaxen Mathis battled a rare form of brain cancer. He is remembered as "A Fighter to the End"

He enjoyed things that most kids do — going to the beach, playing baseball, going to school, playing with his toys, and spending time with his mom.

Jaxen died the early morning of May 30. His mom says he was, “a fighter to the very end.”

Jaxen’s mom is inviting the community to help honor his life. A viewing will be held Friday, June 11 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

His memorial service will take place Saturday, June 12 at 10:30 a.m. at Funerals By TS Warden, located at 4315 N. Main St, followed by a repast at Unity Church at 12:30 p.m.

You can make a donation to help his family during this time through the charity 88 Blessings here. Flowers can also be sent to Funerals By TS Warden.

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