Meet Oliver – Retinoblastoma Warrior

"The National Children's Cancer Society has been extremely helpful in making our mission possible. It is comforting to know that someone is there who cares and understands what we are going through," said Mallorie, Oliver's mom.

Oliver is a sweet three year old boy who has been battling retinoblastoma, a rare type of pediatric cancer that affects the eye, for the last year. “We needed to get him to a treatment center quickly,” said his mom, Mallorie, once he was diagnosed. “Only three centers in the country were qualified to treat retinoblastoma, all of which were a significant distance from our home in Charlotte, NC.” The retinoblastoma team at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York City was able to get Oliver in within two days and Oliver began treatment immediately. “We began a mission to not only save Oliver’s life but to save his eye,” she said.

Oliver and his family traveled to New York every three-four weeks for treatment which then increased to weekly visits. The NCCS’s support allowed Oliver to receive the treatment he required, even though it was far from their North Carolina home. According to Mallorie, “The assistance with transportation has helped to relieve the major financial strain we encountered with the treatment plan Oliver needed.” In addition to the financial support, the NCCS also provided emotional support in their time of need. “The National Children’s Cancer Society has been extremely helpful in making our mission possible. It is comforting to know that someone is there who cares and understands what we are going through…”

Oliver has responded very well to treatment; the main tumor is gone and he has regained vision in his affected eye. “Through it all Oliver has been a great example of courage and optimism,” said his mom.

Thanks to the NCCS, Oliver’s parents were able to focus on the well-being of their child. According to Mallorie, “It is a blessing to spend a little less time worrying and a little more time enjoying our precious moments with him!”