We were shocked to learn that Chad's co-worker's son was diagnosed with leukemia (pre-B ALL) yesterday. Eli is two and half years old. His father, Phil, is the Regional Director for Shire in Charlotte. Phil and Chad are managers in the same zone. Their family was vacationing at the beach when they realized Eli was sick and they needed to find a doctor. Due to Chad covering the Myrtle Beach area, Phil called Chad for advice. Chad quickly sent them to one of his top doctors. I know how difficult it is for a pediatrician to pick up on a possible childhood cancer diagnosis - especially the first time they see a child. It may have just been chance, but I truly think God placed Chad in this situation to help this family. Chad directed them to an excellent doctor in the area who immediately picked up that Eli's labs were all wrong. Eli was sent to a hospital in the Myrtle Beach area and a few hours later was taken via ambulance to Charlotte. He was officially diagnosed with ALL today and will begin treatment tomorrow.
As a former pediatric heme/onc nurse I know all to well what they family is currently going though. I have never met Phil or his family but I feel such a connection to them - maybe because of my love of the pediatric heme/onc world or maybe its because I have a little boy and simply can't imagine having to sit in their shoes.
I know they would appreciate all of your prayers. Please pray for Eli and his family as he begins his treatment tomorrow. They will need a lot of support as they face the road ahead!
You can view Eli's page and read his story at:
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