Hi, I’m Nicole Maness and my friend Kristen recently found out that her son Colton, who is only 3 was diagnosed with a rare form of leukemia called MPAL. There are only 3% of patients with this type of leukemia. This diagnosis requires Colton to undergo a more grueling treatment plan, recovery process and isolation at the hospital during induction than a less severe form of cancer. He was admitted on November 9th and is still there.

Colton is a very sweet boy with beautiful blue eyes! Those eyes will get you every time. He loved being outdoors digging in the sand, helping his dad work on cars, going to daycare and playing with his sister at the park. You could find Colton in his hard hat, safety vest, tool belt and playing with construction vehicles. Colton unfortunately will not be able to do most of these activities for the next year. It has been a whirlwind of procedures, doctors and tests. Please pray for this family.

Kristen has always been a great friend to me and was there for me when I lost my parents. So, I wanted to start this GoFundMe to help her family. Their lives have been turned upside down. They will need help with medical bills, utilities, mortgage and food to put their minds at ease in order to be there for Colton. Kristen and Bill have been by Colton’s side during his chemotherapy the whole time, but this is going to be a long journey. Kristen had to leave her job to become Colton’s caregiver. Bill travels for work up to 6 weeks at a time. They really want Bill to be able to stay home during this time to help with Colton’s recovery. Colton loves having both his Mommy and Daddy there with him. They also have Colton’s little sister Abigail to take care of. I’m sure this is very scary for all of them. If you could donate anything that would be great. If you can’t donate if you could please be so kind to share this and help spread the word.

Here is a note from Kristen and Bill:

To Colton,

We wish we could take this pain away from you. You are so strong, so brave, and so special. We are so sorry this is happening to you, Mommy & Daddy don’t understand it either, but we are here with you every step of the way. You are the strongest little boy we know, you are loved very much.

To Parents,

We hope you never have to hear the words your child has cancer. We hope you never have to cry only when your baby is asleep. Please pray for strength and healing during this time. Please hug your babies and enjoy every moment building memories. - Bill & Kristen