In Loving Memory of Austin Lopes' Fundraising Page

Thank you for visiting our Giving Page.

Our mission is to support Dr. Natalie Collins in her Rhabdomyosarcoma research efforts at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in loving memory of Austin Lopes.

Austin was diagnosed with stage IV alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma on Christmas day 2017.  He was just 16 years old.  He lost his battle on May 8th, 2021, leaving behind his courageous spirit to help us continue the fight for a cure. 

In High School Austin was a Laker Leader, played varsity soccer, sang in the choir and was an active member of the musical productions.  Austin was an active volunteer and dedicated to community service. He volunteered as a Faith Formation Leader at church and believed in giving.  He intentionally made a choice to give back because it was important to him to make a difference. We promised to continue to make a difference for him!

Austin was an early graduate of Emerson College where he was awarded an honorary Bachelor of Arts Degree for demonstrating exceptional academic talent soon after his matriculation in 2019.  Austin was an incredibly talented videographer/editor, producer, creative storyteller, and musician. He had dreams to pursue a career in visual media arts. He was an inspiration to us all.  Austin’s life was cut short because of this treacherous disease, but it did not conquer his soul or the spirit to live life fully and beautifully. He lived life with purpose.  He found meaning in everything he did and that’s what gave him the power to push forward through unimaginable challenges. We will continue to push for him leaning into his power!

Dr. Natale Collins was part of Austin’s wonderful team at Dana Farber/Jimmy Fund Clinic.  Less than 4% of the federal budget for cancer research is dedicated to childhood cancer.  Please help us Support her research to find a cure, make a difference, and deliver HOPE.

With sincere love and appreciation,

The Lopes Family