Name: Will
Diagnosis: acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Home state: Mississippi
Will’s parents knew something was wrong with their son. Their once-energetic boy was no longer able to run across the playground, and he was losing weight. Medical tests revealed he had the most common form of childhood cancer, acute lymphoblastic leukemia.
“We were in complete shock,” said Ali, Will’s mom. “We thought he had a virus that could be fixed with a vitamin.” Will was referred to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital®, where he began an aggressive chemotherapy treatment.
When he has a chance to go home, Will likes to visit his dad at the firehouse. One day, all the firefighters surprised Will by letting him shave their heads. “You always know who the firemen are in our home town,” said Ali. “They all have their heads shaved in honor of Will.”
Now 7, Will is expected to complete his treatment in 2008. He enjoys sports, being outdoors and eating pizza
