The creation of Jason's Friends Foundation was inspired by the life of Jason William Eades. Jason was eight years old when he was diagnosed with a brain stem tumor. Immediately the family went to Denver, where there was no hope being offered for Jason. A pediatric neurosurgeon in New York thought that he was a good candidate for surgery. Their week trip to New York turned into a three month stay. Jason had radiation twice daily. twice weekly chemo and several types of therapy to remedy motor skills affected by the surgery, chemotherapy and radiation. In April of 1995, while still in New York, he turned nine and the family returned to Casper. The MRI in May showed the tumor was gone and the family felt that their prayers had been answered and truly a miracle had happened. In August, Jason began showing the same symptoms again and a third trip to New York took place. The MRI this time revealed the tumor was back and bigger than the original one. Jason fought his courageous battle for eleven months and was victorious in many ways against his cancer, as he recovered from various procedures and side effects. Jason passed away on November 11, 1995. Jason always showed more concern for others. He faced his illness with a dignity beyond his years. He taught us how to overcome any obstacle with strength and courage.

Those touched by Jason's life wanted to honor his memory in a way that would be meaningful and helpful to others. Thus, Jason's Friends Foundation was established in 1996. Jason always wanted to be famous. While this is not exactly what Dad and Mom had planned for him, he is still reaching out and helping others as he did in life. Jason's Friends Foundation is an exceptional cause that provides help to the families in Wyoming who have children suffering from brain or spinal cord tumors and childhood cancer.

Jason's Friends Plaza

A memorial park called the Jason's Friends Plaza has been created in downtown Casper on the corner of 9th and Center. A life size bronze of Jason has been sculpted by local artist Chris Navarro. The plaza is a visible reminder of the plight of children with life threatening illnesses and of a little boy's impact on the community of Casper and on the State of Wyoming.

ONCE IN A WHILE

Words by John Bettis
(From a sign at Jason's Friends Plaza)
Once in a while, someone comes along,
That one in a million heart, so pure and so strong.
They can face up to the tears,
And somehow still find a smile.
We only get them, every once and a while.

Once in a while, someone has the eyes,
That one in a million look, that never tells lies
They can get you on your feet,
To walk that extra mile.
We only see them, every once in a while

That's why we call them heroes,
That's why we know their names.
And once you've heard their stories,
you're never quite the same.

That's why we call them heroes.
The best thing they ever do,
Is point to the best in us all,
And say, "If I can, you can too."

Once in a while, I still hear his voice.
That one in a million sound, like two laughing boys.
He would hate it if we cried.
It never was his style.
Oh we still miss him, more than once in a while.

Oh, they can face up to the tears,
And somehow still find a smile.
We only get them
Every once in a while.

Oh how we miss him!!

In memory of Jason William Eades
April 7, 1986 - Nov. 11, 1995