PATIENT SPOTLIGHT: MEET CHARLIE

As told by his mother, Aurora

Charlie was diagnosed with leukemia, B-cell ALL, on September 5, 2018. He had just started kindergarten. That Labor Day Weekend, his lymph nodes and jawline became swollen, so we took him his pediatrician right after the holiday.  The doctor sent us home, saying that Charlie should be fine in a few days. Then, I shared that he bruises easily. This is something I’d wanted to share for a long time, but I was afraid of what the doctors might think of me. That day, I didn’t care. Upon hearing this, the doctor changed his mind and sent us to the hospital to do some blood work. Within an hour of giving blood, we were told to head straight to the ER. He was diagnosed the very next day and our Childhood Cancer journey began. Charlie was only 5 years old. 

At first, Charlie had a difficult time stepping into the rigorous regime that is cancer treatment. Getting the access port was rather traumatic. But eventually, the chemo, both through his spine and orally, became the norm for him. What a soldier. He essentially went into lockdown that made COVID protocols seem a piece of cake. 

Now, 3.5 years later, we look back with relief, joy, weariness, and thankfulness. God most certainly has been near and comforting in the tense beginnings and emergencies and through the dreary daily routine.  We are also thankful to the many friends, neighbors, and caring strangers who have helped ease the load, distracted the pain, and lifted Charlie and us up in prayer. 

Charlie is fun, inquisitive, enjoys cooking and working with tools. He has lots of empathy and expects fairness and justice.

We should all be so blessed. God is still good. My favorite Bible verse is Philippians 4:7 which says, “And the peace of God which transcends all understanding will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” This verse helped so much throughout this long journey. Our prayer is that everyone will find this PEACE that comes only from Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior! God bless you all!