My best friend and husband, Holton "Reid" Batton was first diagnosed with an extragonadal germ cell cancer in March of 2021. He was brave through multiple rounds of inpatient chemotherapy, 2 stem cell transplants, radiation, immunotherapy, surgery, and clinical trials. We lost Reid from cancer the day after his 27th birthday on June 28th, 2023.

Throughout Reid's cancer journey, he taught his loved ones how to be strong and how to love life despite suffering. While fighting cancer, Reid continued to live and to see the beauty in the world around him. He told me, "I don't do chemo to sit on the couch!" He never stopped cheering at Hurricanes Hockey games, spoiling his two Australian Shepherds, or singing Bob Marley. 

Reid fought hard. He wanted to live desperately. For some reason, he wasn't awarded the opportunity - despite his healthcare providers and him doing everything right. There were many things he still wanted to do - become a father, buy a boat, and beat cancer. 

This fund was started in Reid's memory and honor by his loved ones to continue his legacy in fighting germ cell cancer. 

Reid’s Fund is currently available to germ cell cancer patients at Duke who demonstrate financial need for assistance with transportation/lodging expenses, mental health counseling, and fertility preservation.  $10,620 was divided evenly between these necessary services. 

Reid’s Fund will support germ cell cancer research conducted by Reid’s oncologist, Dr. Christopher Hoimes. Dr. Hoimes’ Team plans to open a new clinical trial investigating biomarkers in germ cell cancers. $30,000 was allocated to this new clinical trial and associated costs. 

Future funds will benefit Dr. Hoimes' research with future goals for Reid’s Fund outlined below:

1) Financially supporting a national meeting focused on germ cell cancer current and future management strategies

2) Continuing to improve access to care for germ cell cancer patients through the funding of research projects