For weeks, 7-year-old Carson ran a low-grade fever off and on and he was always tired. He no longer wanted to run around and play. When blood work revealed Carson had acute myeloid leukemia, an aggressive form of blood cancer, his parents, Kori and William, were devastated. “Up until then, he’d been so healthy,” Kori said at the time.
St. Jude patient Carson
Carson’s family turned to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. “The first time we walked in the doors of St. Jude, it was the most incredible feeling,” Kori said at the time.
At St. Jude, Carson underwent chemotherapy. With his cancer in remission, he was able to undergo a bone marrow transplant at a hospital near his home.
St. Jude is a place full of hope. We see success stories every day. Miracles happen every day here.
Unfortunately, Carson’s cancer did not stay in remission long. His family turned to St. Jude for his continuing treatment, which included chemotherapy and a second transplant.
“Carson has handled things like a champ,” William said at the time. “We’re in amazement of just how much he pushes through.”
St. Jude patient Carson and his mom, Kori
Families never receive a bill from St. Jude for treatment, travel, housing or food — because all a family should worry about is helping their child live.
Carson’s cancer came back and he underwent a third transplant. It was a difficult road, and throughout his treatment he missed his dog and extended family back home. Through it all, Carson stayed positive.
St. Jude patient Carson and his mom, Kori
Carson was outgoing and talkative. He was wild about Minecraft and loved to play video games with his best friend, Zac, who was also a patient and passed away in November 2023. Playing video games was a way for the boys to relax and forget about cancer for a little while.
Editor's note: We regret to inform you that Carson passed away in 2022.
Meet more patients
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Patient Art Stories & Gifts
Meet patient artists and learn how art helps them cope with diagnosis and treatment. We feature patient artwork at the hospital and on gifts to inspire others.
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Meet Misheel
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