Heartless scammers use pictures 9-year-old boy battling brain cancer on phony TikTok accounts to raise money: ‘Disheartening’

Julian Galloway: A Young Warrior’s Journey with Brain Cancer

Julian Galloway, a nine-year-old boy from Texas, has been bravely battling medulloblastoma, a form of brain cancer, since his diagnosis in December 2019. Despite the daunting prognosis of six months to a year to live, Julian has defied the odds, inspiring countless individuals with his resilience and courage. His family has shared his journey openly on social media, transforming their pain into a powerful narrative of hope and strength. This transparency, while heartfelt, has unfortunately made them vulnerable to exploitation, as scammers have begun using Julian’s photos to deceive well-meaning donors.

The Emergence of Scammers and the Family’s Shock

The Galloway family discovered in May that scammers were exploiting Julian’s situation, creating fake TikTok and social media accounts in his name. These imposters used Julian’s images to solicit donations via PayPal, preying on the goodwill of people moved by his story. Lee Galloway, Julian’s father, expressed deep dismay, stating, "It’s very disheartening. People out there will do anything to make a quick buck." The family’s shock intensified as they realized the extent of the scammers’ reach and the difficulty in combating these fraudulent activities.

Unmasking the Scammers: Tactics and Challenges

The scammers’ methods were sophisticated, utilizing up-to-date photos of Julian, some of which were recently shared by the family with nonprofits or on their Facebook page. Lee Galloway recounted the frustration of navigating social media platforms’ reporting systems, often struggling to prove the scams’ impact. Despite these obstacles, the family’s efforts to raise awareness have somewhat diminished the scammers’ activities. However, new fake accounts continually emerge, necessitating constant vigilance and highlighting the ongoing challenges in this digital age.

Community Support and Honors: A Beacon of Hope

Amidst the struggles, Julian has received heartfelt support and recognition. In February, he was sworn in as an honorary NYPD detective, a testament to his inspiring spirit. He is also set to receive an inspiration award at the Blue Lives Matter NYC Archangel Gala in March. These honors underscore the community’s admiration for Julian’s resilience and the impact of his story. The outpouring of support has been a source of strength for the Galloways, reminding them of the good that exists alongside the challenges they face.

The Current Battle: Cancer, Scammers, and Hope

Julian continues to fight cancer with unwavering determination, while his family remains vigilant against scammers. An official TikTok account, @teamjulianofficial, now shares updates on his journey, ensuring supporters have a genuine source of information. Lee emphasizes the importance of keeping Julian’s story alive, stating, "I still want his story out there. He’s been battling for five years and is still defying odds." This authenticity helps counteract the scammers’ false narratives, maintaining trust and connection with their audience.

A Message of Awareness and Resilience

The Galloways’ experience serves as a cautionary tale about the risks of online scams, urging individuals to verify charitable causes before donating. Simultaneously, Julian’s story embodies hope and resilience, inspiring others to face adversity with courage. The family’s journey, though marked by pain and challenges, remains a testament to the power of love, community, and the unyielding spirit of a young warrior. Their message underscores the importance of empathy and vigilance, fostering a more compassionate and informed digital community.