Join Team WEStrong on Saturday, Oct. 19 (also Jason's birthday)  at Freedom Plaza to celebrate our amazing son, Wes who completed his leukemia treatment on June 14, 2023!

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In January 2021, Wes (then 2) was diagnosed with b-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Our lives flipped upside down as we entered this new world of cancer. We struggled to make sense of the road ahead - the drugs, blood transfusions, and procedures Wes would have to endure to beat this. The team at Children’s National held our hand (both literally and figuratively) as we grappled to understand the treatment protocol and to make the best decisions for our son and (growing) family. The team has continued to support us through 875 days of treatment (ending June 2023), being only a phone call away at any time of day. From something as simple as “what kind of topical ointment can I put on a rash?” to fevers that led to ER visits, we never felt alone.

In addition to the clinical expertise of the oncology team, they focused on Wes’s needs as a kid too. Over the years, nurses, doctors, and other hospital staff have taken the time to sit with Wes on the floor and play dinosaurs, chase him down the halls, and integrate him into his care by letting him direct stethoscopes and push / pull syringes of fluid into his port.

The hospital also has some amazing resources, such as the Treats & Treasures cart, which provides his choice of a snack and a toy…at every visit. He has access to the Tracy's Kids Art Therapy Room where he can paint, play with model magic, and draw on the windows to express himself in a safe space where no examinations are allowed. And he can participate in the Music Therapy program, playing music with Michael, using egg shakers and the xylophone or sometimes just sit and listen to Michael play the guitar.

Wes (now 6 and a year out of treatment!)  is a brave kid who has confronted a two-and-a-half year leukemia treatment plan with an incredible strength and light spirit.

Join us in celebrating his strength by donating today.