Miles of Miracles For Josh

Follow Josh's Story Here

Josh’s Fight: From a Simple Checkup to a Life-Changing Diagnosis

On April 17th, Kyle and I took Josh to the doctor for what we thought was mono. Within minutes of starting the exam, the doctor told us to take Josh to the emergency room at the children’s hospital. Josh was admitted to the Pediatric Hematology Oncology floor and our lives had changed forever.

The Diagnosis: Ph-Like ALL with Complex Genetics

As test results came back, we learned that Josh has a rare and aggressive form of leukemia called Philadelphia chromosome–like acute lymphoblastic leukemia (Ph-like ALL). His leukemia also shows chromosomal instability, complex cytogenetics, and multiple high-risk genetic mutations, making his case especially difficult to treat.

Josh is now on an intensive treatment plan that includes:

IV and oral chemotherapy at home and in the hospital

Weekly lumbar punctures for chemotherapy to his spinal fluid

Frequent blood and platelet transfusions

Ongoing hospital visits several times a week.

Supportive care including physical therapy for neuropathy in his hands and legs

Despite everything, Josh continues to face each day with strength and courage. One of Josh’s favorite things to do is go from a walk. Losing the feeling in his feet has made this incredibly difficult, but he doesn't give up.

We hope you will join us as we walk miles of miracles for Josh.

‍WALK, RUN, RIDE: Take a walk, go for a run, or a ride in hinor of Josh. Be sure to snap a photo or video and tag us and let us know how far you went. We are trying to reach 3000 miles by the time he rings the bell. @milesofmiraclesforjosh or #milesofmiraclesforjosh

SEND: Lets fill Josh's room with messages of love and encouragement.

Josh Smith

PO Box 86

Bettendorf, IA 52722

DONATE: To help offset the miles we drive and the cost of care for Josh.

SHARE: Share Josh's Story and help build a community of love and support for Josh.

SAY HI: When you see Josh around town, please say hello and offer words of encouragement or a fist bump. It lifts his spirits.

GIVE BLOOD & PLASMA: We are deeply grateful to every person who has donated blood, plasma, and prayers. Josh wouldn’t be here without you. ❤️

If you're able to support our family in any way—financially, through prayer, encouragement, miles, mail, donating blood, or any other way—we would be so incredibly thankful.

You are helping to ease the weight of this fight and we are so thankful to have you in our lives.

Thank you for being part of Team Josh.

With love,

Barbara, Kyle, & Josh