With the crowd of people, electric neon colors and Mason Gordon’s indefatigable energy, it was easy not to notice the four surgical scars snaking across his head. Mason, 11, has inoperable brain cancer, but he and his mother, Lindsey, keep their spirits up with help from their friends.

Mason was diagnosed with stage one cancer four years ago. The tumor — which is not fatal — leads to spinal cord fluid to build up on his brain, causing many debilitating side effects like vomiting, problems with balance, memory loss and more. The tumor is embedded in his optical nerve, surrounding his basilar artery and resting on top of his pituitary gland, causing additional problems. Just last week, doctors determined that his tumor is growing and experimental chemotherapy has been undertaken.

It is treatable, but it comes at a high cost.

He has had 19 surgeries in his life so far, including emergency eight in the last year to remedy malfunctions with the shunt in his head that diverts excess fluid from his brain.

Although all of his care is covered by two insurance policies, single mother Lindsey must often take unpaid time off from work to tend to her son. Mason is regularly in and out of the hospital for surgeries and other treatment and is often cannot attend school. While his prognosis is good, the Kirkland-based family is under significant financial strain.

“It’s really hard. I’m the only one that can be there with him, ” said Lindsey, who works part-time to accommodate Mason’s medical needs. Mason’s father is not in his life.

That’s why on June 10, dozens of people gathered at Get Zen Hot Yoga in Bellevue to help raise money for the Gordons.

The event was organized by long-time friend and owner of Get Zen, Tiffany Thompson. Since Mason’s diagnosis, Thompson has been with the family step-by-step, said Lindsey.

“She’s helped us so many times, but she’s always wanted to do more. This is really overwhelming and amazing,” Lindsey said, adding that she is surprised at how much assistance people continue to offer. “You would think after four years, the help and attention would kind of trickle off.”

Thompson said she is continually moved by Mason and Lindsey’s attitudes toward his illness. The business owner wanted to help him and Lindsey, who admitted she is too proud to ask people for help.

“[Lindsey] has so much grace and really just takes everything in stride, and he’s just the cutest kid, so smart and kind. He really has my heart,” Thompson said. “You just do what you can for the people you love. Pay it forward.”

In all, Thompson and the attendees at Get Zen’s special event raised $4,600 for the Gordons, exceeding expectations. More information and opportunities to donate can be found here: https://www.gofundme.com/1xrphw.