Liam

Our lives changed forever on April 13, 2020 when we received devastating news that Liam, then a sweet, smiling, intelligent, and snuggly 3-year-old, had a tumor the size of a kumquat in his brain. His neurosurgeon at the Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO) told us that he needed the tumor removed as soon as possible, and we were airlifted to SickKids a few days later.

Liam underwent the resection the following morning and it was a heart-wrenching journey, especially at the beginning of the pandemic when only one parent was allowed to be by his side. But Liam was our light, an incredible fighter with a heart of gold. He charmed every nurse, doctor, and attendant with his smile and bravery, showing everyone just how tough he really was.

After his surgery, Liam underwent three rounds of induction chemotherapy at CHEO, followed by three stem cell transplants at the Centre hospitalier universitaire Ste-Justine in Montréal. Despite experiencing many complications, including two ICU admissions, Liam was declared NED for the first time in August 2020. Unfortunately, he relapsed in May 2021, but after 30 rounds of radiation, he has been NED since August 2021.

Liam is now in kindergarten with his twin brother and is catching up on many social and academic skills. He is a very happy 6-year-old who loves his plush toys, especially Luna, his favorite rabbit who has been with him every step of the way. He also loves toy cars, Chocolate Cheerios, Paw Patrol, Bluey, and going to speech therapy, physiotherapy, and occupational therapy.

Despite the challenges he still faces, Liam continues to amaze us every day. We are so proud of him and grateful every day that he is still the toughest little guy we know. We love him more than words can express.

February 2024 Update: Liam's 7th Birthday

It's been a whole year since Liam finished his treatment and rang the bell. His family will get the results from his latest MRI next week to determine if he is still in remission.

Liam has started first grade and is learning to read and count. This last year, he went to Disney, learned to fish and ski for the first time. Last December, he was chosen as one the faces of 24H Tremblant, one of the largest fundraising events for kids in need of our area. Liam is living his best life!