Two weeks ago, we were still in Washington State, enjoying our time with family and friends. Ronan was nothing short of his loving, active, happy, playful self. As I was taking the boys’ Christmas card photo, I noticed Ronan’s left eye looked a little off. It was so minor that no one else—except my neurotic, picture-taking eye—would have noticed.
The days went by, and nothing changed. His behavior, activity level, appetite—everything remained the same. Still happy Ronan.
About a week ago, right after we got home, Woody noticed it too. We thought maybe it was dust, a leaf, a bug bite, an infection… something minor. Here’s how the rest of our week unraveled:
Monday (8/9) – Saw Dr. Campbell (pediatrician). She wasn’t concerned and thought it was a chalazion. We were referred to a pediatric ophthalmologist.
Tuesday (8/10) – Saw the pediatric ophthalmologist. We walked out due to MOTHER’S INTUITION. (Horrible experience.)
Wednesday (8/11 – early afternoon) – Saw pediatric ophthalmologist #2, Dr. Brendan Cassidy. Mother’s intuition felt positive with him and his team. He sent us immediately to Phoenix Children’s Hospital for an MRI.
And so our journey begins…
Ronan has been diagnosed with Stage 4 neuroblastoma—a rare, but the most common, childhood cancer. Findings from the MRI and CT scan show two masses: one in his abdomen (the adrenal gland), which is the primary source, and the other on his left orbital bone, causing his eye to push forward.
Neuroblastoma is very treatable—and even curable. We have our plan in place, and the Thompson Family Combat Boots are on.
We are so blessed to be surrounded by the most amazing family and friends on this planet. We know Ronan is a fighter—the strongest little boy out there—and we know we are going to beat this.
Please continue to pray and keep our family in your thoughts during this time.
Love,
Maya
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