03/29/2026
We're sharing the GoFundMe for our former student (of the month as you see in this 2014 photo!) Jack Godo, who became a talented ballet dancer with a promising professional career ahead of him. Jack is facing his second brain tumor surgery soon. His Mom Amy trained with us, and his Dad updated the old dojo for us. Tobukan is a family. Always. Perhaps you can help the Godo family meet some of the daunting expenses and join us in wishing Jack a successful surgery. And a long, healthy dance career. Thank you. https://www.gofundme.com/f/keep-jack-dancing-support-his-journey
"On August 29th, 2024, a very sizable tumor was found in Jacks brain. Majority of it was successfully removed on September 11, 2024. His recovery was long and challenging. He had to relearn how to swallow, how to walk, how to dance... All while experiencing symptoms like brain swelling and double vision. With so many things against him, he persevered.
Since then, Jack has done amazing things like get his drivers license, celebrate his 17th birthday, and most importantly, move to Philadelphia to pursue his dreams of becoming a professional ballet dancer. He has found a home in The School of Philadelphia Ballet in the pursuit of perfecting his craft. We should all be so lucky.
During this time, he has continued with regular MRI's to keep an eye on things. On February 16, 2026, Jack had a routine MRI that revealed our worst fears. His tumor had grown.
The Godo Family is preparing themselves for another battle. This time though will look a bit different. They will be working with a team of specialists out in California who are very familiar with Jacks exact type of tumor.
While we have all the confidence in the world in his team, this process doesn't come without it's challenges.
The obvious is being across the country from your village adds a new layer to this in more ways than one. To be displaced from your home, both working in fields that don't offer a "work from home" option, missing the people closest to you to make sure you ate something today. It won't be easy. But what choice do they have?
Jacks surgery is set for April 30th and his focus is on his recovery, right where it should be.
Amy and George are no strangers to the challenges of having their child needing brain surgery. And they are doing everything they can to prepare themselves for the journey ahead.
If you can, please consider donating to support The Godo Family as they weather this storm together, again. All donations will be used towards Jacks medical expenses, his rehabilitation, and any additional costs associated with the logistics of being displaced from their home and on the West Coast.
Additionally, your thoughts, prayers, and well wishes will always be welcomed.