Two-year-old Carson was diagnosed with bilateral retinoblastoma/abdominal neuroblastoma in 2015.
Carson was diagnosed at 9m and spent his 1st month away from his brother and across the country. After the month away, Carson went back to Toronto from Calgary for treatment every 18 days for the 1st six months, and then progressively, time between has lengthened. He has been through 5 rounds systemic chemo, multiple IVC, MRIs, EUAs, ultrasounds, laparoscopies, transfusions, spinal tap, bone marrow and solid biopsies, port infections, retinal detachments, cataract, etc etc. His mom Candice says, “throughout it all, he has the happiest heart and brings joy to everyone around him.”
Carson loves anything Batman related, he loves listening to Raffi, playing blocks with his brother, building forts, reading books, and playing music. Drums and writing music make up a lot of his day.
Carson will be traveling with 1 parent regularly to Toronto until he is at least 6 and his mom says that his adult life will be significantly impacted by journey. Carson’s father had it as an infant, losing an eye at 18m. She says, “Our goal has always been to spread awareness, as retinoblastoma screening is very simple, painless, and effective, and should be part of routine childhood eye exams. We were lucky enough to know what to watch for, and quick action saved Carson’s eyes. We hope to save his sight. So many children are not as fortunate.”
Candice says, “Despite all the surgeries, cross-country travels, anesthesias, pokes while awake, infections, isolation hospital stays, ambulances, etc etc, Carson has never stopped smiling. He has gotten braver with age. His last port access was so incredible – he didn’t even cry. His bravery has been our inspiration through this journey. He continues to flirt with nurses and flight attendants alike. Despite not walking until 20m, he is developing right on track mentally and physically. He has taken strides in eating solids, which completely ceased when chemo started. He is our hero.”
To follow Carson’s journey & visit his GoFundMe page, click here!