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Boy celebrating cancer remission would enjoy Yuletide cheer By Buffy Pollock Updated: Dec 20, 2022 09:08 AM A A Editor’s note: Light One Candle is an annual series sponsored by the Mail Tribune that focuses on an individual, group or organization who could use a helping hand during the holiday season. Once that need is filled, donations may be distributed to others in need. When a lump near his clavicle turned out to be stage 3 cancer, a 7-year-old student of Kids Unlimited Academy and his family quickly found themselves juggling day-to-day life along with extensive medical appointments, what felt like endless rounds of chemotherapy and the inevitable fear of what was to come. Diagnosed with anaplastic large cell lymphoma, ALK-negative, a rare type of lymphoma in children, the boy developed a painful lump and began feeling unwell almost immediately. Initially, the family suspected COVID-19 after the boy had been potentially exposed. The subsequent cancer diagnosis meant a five-month regimen of treatment beginning in March. Despite long days at the hospital — and a grim prognosis — the friends and family say the boy maintained a positive outlook and happy attitude throughout it all. An added boost during the toughest days, the boy’s twin sister was, his parents say, “his biggest supporter,” never complaining about the changes to the family’s daily life and always willing to help in any way she could. Deemed “in remission” July 1, the boy will continue having regular monthly checkups with his oncologist to ensure his health continues to improve. A happy anniversary for the boy and his family, December marks five months of remission, equal to the time he was undergoing treatment. Kids Unlimited staff members and the boy’s mother hope to surprise him this holiday with a furnished bedroom decorated with favorite characters, including Spider-Man, Sonic, Mario Bros., Star Wars, Minecraft and Cuphead. An added request from the boy’s mom: She would love to add a desk to their Medford home, where her son would be able to do his homework. As for Christmas wishes, the boy also is hopeful Santa Claus might drop off a few toys and some video games. To help, call Kids Unlimited, 541-774-3900, or email [email protected] Read this season’s Light One Candle stories at mailtribune.com/news/light-one-candle/