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For the love of Lukah (#LEGOLOVE)

My name is Leigh-Ann Owen, I don't usually ask for gifts for my birthday but this year, my 50th I will.

I am blessed to share February 7th with my first grandchild Lukah Edward Gordon Owen. We thought this year for Lukah's 3rd, he would be out and about having cake, hugs, games and giggles with family and friends, but he will not.

On Sunday, January 20, 2019 many lives were about to change in an unimaginable way, Lukah went to Abbotsford General where his platelets were found to be low. We were told to come back Tuesday but immediately if any bleeding occurred. Monday the doctor called me wanting to see Lukah as soon as possible. My heart suddenly dropped. For whatever reason, I knew.

At 3:30pm Monday afternoon, I watched my 21 year old son Brett Owen, and 23 year old Jenny Kok walk with their son Lukah to a tiny office to listen to what no parent should hear and most don't prepare for.

Lukah was admitted to Vancouver Children's Hospital Monday evening and on Tuesday afternoon was confirmed to have AML--- a rare type of leukaemia that affects 20% of children.

Lukah's blood and bone marrow are compromised. No one has done anything wrong, these things can apparently just happen which has made it difficult for me to understand and accept why this is become our reality. It's absolutely devastating seeing our innocent little guy whose normally smiling, energetic, adventurous and loving having to endure and overcome life-threatening obstacles.

The fact is this is happening and we are helpless. We are fully dependent on faith, the expertise of doctors and nurses as Lukah challenges the AML.

Aside from medication, there will be a ton of other expenses. Brett has not been to work since January 21 and should be with him at least until he is stable and on a consistent treatment plan. Lukah needs to be in the hospital for approximately six months with 2 to 3 years of continued care. To top it all off Brett doesn't have a vehicle.

My 50 year wish would be to ask all of you to pray and send positive vibes for the love of Lukah and if able, to contribute. These contributions would go towards a reliable secondhand vehicle and Brett's expenses (the hour trip from Abbotsford to Vancouver Children's Hospital.)

It's going to be a tricky road for our family as Lukah literally fights for his life. I would like to thank you all for your words of encouragement, support and love. We truly appreciate it.