Support Owen's Parents During Leukemia Treatment

Owen, nearly four years old, is the kindest and sweetest boy you’ll ever meet.

On Feb 14th, 2024, he was officially diagnosed with B-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia.

B-ALL is a cancer of the blood where immature B lymphocytes proliferate, crowding out healthy cells, leading to anemia, infections, and bleeding. Over the past few decades, advances in treatment have significantly increased the survival rate for children with B-ALL, making it one of the most treatable forms of leukemia.

Owen's Initial Symptoms:

How it all started...

The journey to discovering Owen's B-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia felt like a rollercoaster that refused to end. It started innocently with ear infections followed by rounds of antibiotics that became our routine.

But then, a lump on Owen's neck emerged. Small at first — it grew ominously. Pediatricians and ER visits chalked it up to the ear infections, advising patience.

So we waited.

Owen's snoring, reminiscent of his Owen’s Dad's pre-tonsillectomy days, led us to an ENT — who expressed hesitation over swollen lymph nodes and scheduled a follow up six-weeks later.

So we waited some more.

Two weeks later, Owen's unexpected collapse and scream of pain turned our worry into panic. A suspected toddler's fracture (a common but often minor bone crack in young children) ended up being a red herring. The real issue lay unaddressed.

So we waited even more.

Finally, the local ENT's observation of multiplying swollen lymph nodes hastened our referral to a specialist at OSHU Doernbecher Children's Hospital. Tests followed, a blur of activity masking our growing dread.

The call came after Owen had just scaled a play structure, his pride in his achievement lighting up his face. "No Daddy, but I feel better now," he protested when we said we had to return to the hospital. His frightened words cut deep.

Admission to the hospital confirmed our worst fears. Owen's condition rapidly deteriorated, his body betraying the severity of his illness. We were thrust onto a path we never chose, learning painfully that this is just the beginning of a long, thankfully recoverable battle.

Our story isn't unique, but it's ours. It's a reminder of the fragility of health, the strength of hope, and the relentless courage of a child facing unimaginable challenges.

Owen's Journey So Far: https://www.owensjournal.com/journal

How you can help...

While we are immensely grateful for the coverage provided by the Oregon Health Plan for his medical treatments, and for the donations we've received thus far, there will be ongoing expenses and logistical challenges that we know is just over the horizon, which will place more strain on our family.

Over the next 12 weeks, Owen will require constant attention, necessitating the need for a daily caretaker to assist in his care. This is not only crucial for Owen's well-being but also to support his mother, who will need to take time off work during this period. Additionally, as Owen's treatment requires weekly visits to Portland for chemotherapy and all pediatric needs have been centralized there, we are faced with recurring expenses such as transportation, lodging, and incidental costs.

Here's where your donation would go:

Any contribution, no matter how small, would go a long way in alleviating the financial strain we are currently facing. It is important to note that 70% of any donations not used for expenses will be set aside in a fund for Owen's future use, empowering him to pursue his dreams when he turns 25. The remaining 30% will be donated annually to support another child with leukemia in need on GoFundMe, paying forward the generosity we've received.

Your support, whether through financial assistance, kind words, or simply keeping Owen in your thoughts, would mean the world to us during this challenging time. If you are able and willing to contribute, please know that your generosity will make a tangible difference in Owen's journey toward recovery.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for considering our plea and for being a source of strength and support for our family during this trying time. Should you have any questions or require further information, please do not hesitate to reach out.

— Owen's Parents

Mom, Dad, Owen, and Grandma Myrna