Our Warriors Who Inspire Us

Odin Baer was a sweet boy with large, warm brown eyes. He loved cuddles, books, Curious George, music, dancing and playing with his baby sister, Scotland. He was often quiet and observant, but boy could he make you laugh. He called Batman, “Fatman,” even after being corrected. He woke up each morning with a smile. He enjoyed roaring like a bear and even taught Scotland to roar. He loved everyone and gave amply hugs and kisses. 

After experiencing balance issues and a slight inward turn of his right eye, Odin’s pediatrician scheduled him for an MRI at Levine Children’s Hospital on Oct. 3, 2013. The results of Odin’s MRI changed everything. At just 2-years-old, he was diagnosed with DIPG, an aggressive and fast-growing brain tumor. He took part in a clinical trial at Duke Hospital which consisted of standard radiation and an experimental drug therapy. Through treatment, Odin developed a severe anxiety and had to be placed on anti-anxiety medication. Despite his debilitating illness and side effects from treatment, Odin continued playing with instruments, singing songs, running wildly pushing his toy cars, laughing, smiling, roaring like a bear and bringing joy to the people around him.

Odin Baer’s 18-month battle came to an end on April 29, 2015, one month shy of his fourth birthday. His brief but amazing life was shaped by a personality that was quiet, thoughtful and kind, yet still passionate and unflinchingly brave.

Funding for pediatric cancer research brings Odin’s family hope that one day doctors will be able to tell parents like them that they have treatment options for their child rather than “there is nothing we can do.” 

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