We Love Cole! Let's Help Him Beat AML Leukemia

Our beloved nephew, Cole Schanda, was diagnosed with AML Leukemia on November 14, 2022. What everyone thought was a simple cold or flu bug turned into a trip to their local ER. After blood work was drawn, the doctors brought my brother Sean and Cole’s mother into a separate exam room. That was when they told Sean that Cole most likely had Leukemia. Cole was transported by ambulance down to Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital. The ambulance ride was an hour-and-a-half drive, but worth it. Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital has an excellent reputation for caring for children. Within 36 hours, Cole’s bone marrow biopsy confirmed that he had AML Leukemia. On Wednesday, November 16, Cole started his first round of chemo.

Cole’s life was turned upside down. The outpouring of love and support has been incredible, and our brother Sean is beyond grateful. He said that was one of the main reasons he could get through the initial shock of what was happening to his son.

Unfortunately, this is just the beginning for Cole, Sean, and Cole’s big brother Jake. Cole has been at Joe DiMaggio Hospital for almost three weeks and will be there for another three weeks until his initial treatment is completed. Sean lives roughly 90 minutes away from the Hospital. Once the treatment is complete, Cole can go home for a short amount of time. Then it is back in the hospital for another round of treatments. Cole will repeat this process four times, which will total 9-12 months before his treatments are 100% complete.

At this time, Sean is going back and forth from the hospital to his home. He is currently staying over with Cole 3-4 nights a week. Cole’s brother Jake is also visiting him often. Sean is trying to be the best dad he can be for his sons. Sean is exhausted, but he is a fighter and would do anything for his sons.

Cole getting healthy is the #1 priority which means Sean and Jake will make sacrifices to ensure this. On top of the emotional distress and regular everyday expenses, Sean has to take care of gas, food, and medical bills. With Sean only being able to work a few days a week, these expenses will be overwhelming for our brother. Sean has a huge heart and always gives 100% to his family, friends and community. If we all pitch in whatever we can, we can make this challenging journey as painless as possible.

On behalf of my family and brother, I want to thank you for taking the time to read and watch our video.

Thank you all so much for the support,

Kim Schanda