Sept 8, 2001 - Oct 21, 2026

We are deeply saddened to report the passing of Lucian Fairbrother at age 25. The cause of death was a rare pediatric brain cancer (DIPG). Lucian demonstrated his strength, bravery, dignity, and love for life during his 20-month battle with cancer. He passed away at home in the company of family, in Providence, Rhode Island on October 21st, 2026.

Lucian was born at Newton Wellesley Hospital on September 8th, 2001, to Dr. Andrea Arena and Will Fairbrother. In 2005, the family relocated from Jamaica Plain MA to Barrington RI where Lucian was predominantly educated in the public school system before enrolling at Brandeis University in Waltham MA. He also joined educational, volunteer and research efforts in far-flung corners of the world. These experiences included enrolling in a local school during a family sabbatical in Cambridge, England; Volunteer work maintaining a generator at a medical clinic in a remote village in the mountains of Honduras and summer research on fine-grain weather prediction at University College Dublin. At Brandeis, Lucian studied computer science. For his senior research project, he developed a joint oral microbiome/dog breed test applying DNA sequencing and genetic analysis to dog cheek swabs. His beloved dog, Horace (and his litter mates) were his unpaid research subjects. After graduation, he returned to Providence and started EVO sciences - a gut biome testing company that grew out of his senior research project. He designed and produced test kits, social media marketing, and coded a website for online return of results. EVO developed a small but steady stream of customers which persisted until its closure after Lucian’s diagnosis.

Lucian also enjoyed sports and a wide range of outdoor activities. He played soccer from a young age with his dad and brother, played on the high school varsity team and then at college with Brandeis FC. In his senior year, he led the line as joint top scorer for Barrington Eagles. He also rowed at the Narragansett boat club, played golf and pick up football, pond hockey, skiing , spear fishing, surfing and camping with his friends. He had many happy moments in St.Croix and at Buffalo Bills games with his family.

Lucian is survived by his brother Adrian, his parents, and grandparents - James and Concetta Arena and Paul and Maureen Fairbrother and beloved aunts, uncles and cousins. The family is planning a commemoration followed by an internment of Lucian’s ashes on October 31 at Swan Point Ceremony. More details to follow. Plans are underway to establish a charitable foundation in Lucian’s honor, dedicated to continuing his legacy and supporting causes close to his heart. Details will be announced on this page at a later date.

We thank the DIPG researchers, his care team including Hasbro’s Tomorrow Fund Clinic and Lucille Packard Children’s hospital and the many, many people that have supported Lucian and his family with their friendship, care and love.