Ollie is an energetic, determined and loveable 13-year old who began developing a bump on his neck in summer 2019. In November 2019 he was diagnosed with Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma ALK Positive. After multiple relapses in his central nervous system, which caused him to go blind, he had a stem cell transplant in July 2020. He is now a long-term survivor with more than 5-years in remission. This blog shares updates on his wellness and his family's advocacy efforts.

The Brave Boy and Therapeutic Clowns at CHEO (plus Mario photobombing)
Tuesday, 26 November 2019
Joy and laughter...every day is Christmas
Yesterday after a great no-crying or fighting day at CHEO, Ollie and I risked running into Walmart to get a reward. He was thrilled to do something so normal and picked a Hot Wheels Zero Gravity race track set that was on 50% off for Black Friday (my bargain-shopping mom and aunts will be so proud). With all of the gifts that folks are bringing buy it's a bit like Christmas every day right now, but why not? If it brings joy right now, it's worth it.
He was so pleased and proud of his day and said it was the best day yet. Just a reminder that even when things are bad, we can find good and it's all about perspective. Thankfully he can generally find the silver lining.
We took it home and Abuelita (grandma) and Daddy helped him build it. We spent the evening racing, laughing and eating delicious food that kind friends dropped off. I wish Blogger would let me post the video where he is laughing in glee, but we'll just share this pic instead and trust me that there was so much joy and laughter.
Today is a blessed day of rest from poking and prodding, so Mommy gets to begin to navigate the exciting world of leave and insurance forms. Guess the fact that I'm a public servant and good at administration will come in handy. Never-ending fun. LOL
Update: CHEO just called and at 3 pm today we are meeting to review the tests, get the exact type of lymphoma and the treatment plan. Please send prayers and good vibes that it is only in his bump. Will update when we can.
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You guys are in our prayers...TAKE CARE...
ReplyDeleteDawn, Ollie and your family are in our prayers. XO
ReplyDeleteThank you for these updates. I fell asleep praying last night xoxo
ReplyDeleteEstamos con ustedes,nuestra poderosa energía de familia los acompaña en todo momento. Besos para todos y para La tus Coco todo nuestro amor... Este fin de semana la llamamos ..
ReplyDeleteDear Dawn,
ReplyDeleteMy heart sank when I got the news fr Father Hans about yr dear little boy, Oliver. Know that my thoughts and prayers r with u and yr family. Let me know if there is anything I can do. With love and concern,
Mary T.
Thanks, Mary. Prayers are so appreciated right now. Mario is going to spend night with Ollie tomorrow night, so I can be with Abby and so we will likely be at mass Sunday before we switch it again. Hope to see you then!
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