On March 16, 2025, Onyx (at 22 months old) had a seizure that changed the trajectory for our family. After a multitude of tests including various scans, labs, lumbar punctures, bone marrow testing, and a brain biopsy, we heard the words no parent wants to hear, however, there was another layer to this news. Not only was it cancer, they weren't sure what type of cancer it was. It seemed as if no one had ever seen a tumor like this in the brain. It took another couple of weeks for a special lab to determine what we were up against. Onyx was diagnosed with Erythroblastic Sarcoma, a very rare and agressive type of acute myeloid leukemia, and as far as we know, has not been seen in the central nervous system.

With an unknown prognosis, we began this journey to defy the odds. We were scared, but not Onyx. Ony B, as he was affectionately known, didn't let this diagnosis slow him down. He continued to be the sweet, active boy that he always was. Ony adjusted to life in a hospital, running the halls, roaming the halls in his car or wagon, rolling Hot Wheels cars down the hallway ramps, and enjoying the outdoors when he could, even if it was just watching life go by from his hospital window sill. The nurses became his friends and the playroom his new hangout. He continued to learn (he could count to 20 and name all of the planets - his favorite was Jupiter), and loved music, Numberblocks, Alphablocks, but most of all "Bluey" (he was a fan of Bingo, Rusty, and Jack). Our gentle giant loved nothing more than playing basketball and football, dancing to music, tickle fights, peek-a-boo, being helpful, giving hugs, and making people smile.

Sadly, Ony B lost his battle against cancer on November 20, 2025. Our lives have been forever changed by this devistating disease. This journey has taught us the most important lesson: that a 2 1/2 year old joyous little boy, who should've had many decades to live, could live the life he had to the fullest. Ony taught us to be resilient, keep playing, love loudly and unconditionally, and find the joy in every moment.

This September, join us as we fight childhood cancer, one mile at a time by participating in The Million Mile! Help us move one step closer to finding cures for all kids with cancer by donating to research or simply joining the team with miles. Every $50 we raise funds 1 hour of childhood cancer research. Please share our story with 5 friends to help spread awareness that children also get cancer. Thank you for your support during Childhood Cancer Awareness Month!