Dear Mark,
I am deeply honored and privileged to know 4-year-old Carson and his incredible family. Carson is such a sweet and kind-hearted little boy who reminds me of Spiderman, one of his all-time favorite superheroes. Not only is Carson stronger than Spiderman, but he is also probably the strongest 4-year-old I’ve ever met! Earlier this summer, Carson’s family was told the unimaginable news that no one wanted to hear: he had been diagnosed with B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). The whirlwind of procedures and treatment began immediately including a Bone Marrow Aspiration, Lumbar Punctures, chemotherapy, blood transfusions, surgeries, and more. The journey of Carson and his family has been challenging. But through it all, Carson has shown his family and all the medical staff just how resilient and strong he is. His mother, Kimberly, describes him as “an inspiration to all of us and makes us all want to be stronger.”
Carson loves being outside and playing with anything that involves a ball. He has a mean jump shot on the basketball court! In true boy fashion, he enjoys video games and watching “Spidey and His Amazing Friends”, “Paw Patrol”, and “Bubble Guppies”.
At home, Carson enjoys riding bikes and playing with his older sister, Kaydance. This holiday, Carson is really hoping for an outdoor basketball goal, a BB gun, and an Xbox with a few games. His sister’s Christmas list includes a new bicycle, tablet, baby doll clothes, slime, makeup, and jewelry. Above all else, their parents, Michael and Kimberly, are hoping their kids have a good Christmas this year. Kimberly hopes for some new clothes, shoes, a manicure set, and some adult coloring books. Gift cards would come in very handy too. Carson’s family likes to shop at Walmart, Ross, and Beals and enjoy going to eat at McDonalds, Panda Express, Chick-fil-A, Burger King, and the El Potro in Brunswick. But I know this family would appreciate anything as they navigate the months ahead.
Carson’s family has been very appreciative of the doctors, nurses, and child life team’s support and care. I am truly humbled to write this letter on behalf of Carson and his family. Thank you for supporting our patients and families at The Children’s Hospital of Savannah. Carson and his family are so loved, and I hope they feel blessed this Christmas.
Warmly,
Nate Buursma
Certified Child Life Specialist
Memorial Health Dwaine & Cynthia Willett Children’s Hospital of Savannah
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