Otis Sheridan

Our beautiful brave nephew Otis, is facing more than most endure in a lifetime.

Over the last few months his parents, Jess and Matt knew he wasn't his usual happy self. Most recently noticing a firm lump in his tummy and bruising around his belly button Jess took him to PCH on Saturday morning the 28 June.

Life changed later that day. Jess and Matt received the devastating news that at just 7 months old, Otis has been diagnosed with High-Risk Neuroblastoma.

Neuroblastoma is a rare, complex childhood cancer with about 40 children diagnosed each year in Australia. That halves to just 20 children diagnosed with High-Risk Neuroblastoma, like Otis.

Otis's tumor is large and extends from around his Aorta at the base of his heart down to around his left kidney. At this stage, it’s too big to operate on.

To get to this point Otis has already endured two surgeries, his first round of chemotherapy, multiple blood transfusions and endless tests.

It’s going to be a long road ahead. The treatment plan from here is about 15 to 18 months in hospital. It will involve chemotherapy, surgery, stem cell transplants, radiation and immunotherapy.

There are some positives, with the cancer confirmed not in his bone marrow or brain. Jess and Matt have also said that the doctors, nurses, all the PCH staff and charities have been absolutely incredible and know he is in the best hands.

Our brave little boy has already been through so much in the first two weeks. So too have Jess and Matt, as they live through every parent’s worst nightmare.

There are going to be challenges ahead including caring for Luca (Otis's 3 year old big sister), managing the demands of being hospital bound for the next 15 to 18 months, the financial burden of reduced or no income and the long term treatment required for Otis to live a full and happy life.

Jess and Matt deeply appreciate all of the messages of love and are so grateful for the support they have already received to date. For anyone who is wondering how to help, we have set up this campaign to take some load off them for next few years.

The proceeds will be used to assist with necessary travel, parking, out of pocket medical treatments, medication and any future support services for Otis.

Please keep Otis, Luca, Jess and Matt in your thoughts.

Thank you,

Steve & Kath x