Ollie Overcomes!
Ordinarily, the end of summer brings anticipation over the first day of school. An exciting reminder our children will be facing new challenges, altering their routine, making new friends, and reuniting with those they haven’t seen all summer.
The Manuel’s were preparing for all this with Oliver and Henry before receiving news that would be every parent’s worst nightmare. On Thursday, August 19th, Oliver received a terrifying cancer diagnosis - T-Cell Leukemia (ALL) and Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) Leukemia. Ollie is currently undergoing an aggressive 28-day treatment plan and receiving the most amazing care at the University of Virginia medical center.
Ollie, and the Manuels, are more than friends to so many of us. They're an extension of our family. Our initial reaction is to offer up some way to comfort them through this horrible time. We've established this page for just that purpose. In true stubborn Manuel fashion, they were adamantly against this idea. However, this decision isn’t up to them as this is the best, and only, way most of us know how to support them, and Oliver, at this moment.
Jason and Carrie have received an outpouring of support. We've established an attainable fundraising goal given so many unknowns they'll face over the next months and years. The goal may change over time. But for now, this is the best way for many of us to help before the day comes when we can all give Ollie, and the Manuel's, a hug.
Jason and Carrie are committed to donating any money not used specifically for Ollie’s treatment back to LLS research. They are already the benefactor of prior generosity shown by others. Ollie has been approved to receive a cutting-edge new T-Cell ALL drug called Nelabrine . This will extend his hospital stay by 5 days in September for good reason. His doctors call this new drug a "game-changer" for ALL cure rates.
The Manuels sincerely thank each of you for your love, support and contribution at this moment. In addition, for paying it forward to give those that will fight this disease in the future a better chance for success. #ollieovercomes #oliversarmy