Meet Connor
Connor was 3 years old when he began to suffer from a concerning array of symptoms. A blood test revealed the root cause: B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia, a fast-growing blood cancer. This type of lymphoblastic leukemia specifically affects B cell lymphocytes, white blood cells that produce antibodies to fight infection.
Connor was immediately referred to Nationwide Children’s Hospital in March 2021. He began receiving chemotherapy, blood transfusions and other procedures. It wasn’t easy, especially since Connor’s family lives two hours north of the hospital, but hospital staff did everything they could to make him comfortable. From Child Life specialists who remembered little details about him to the nurse who made him a rainbow loom bracelet to use as his ID band, small acts of kindness made a big difference.
On May 18, 2023, he rang the bell to celebrate finishing treatment. For over two years, Connor returned to school and the regular routines of being a kid. But when Connor’s lymph nodes suddenly became swollen, his mother, Sarah, knew something was wrong. Sadly, his cancer had relapsed. Connor was admitted to the hospital on the night of July 4, 2025. That night he watched the fireworks from his window. He remained inpatient for 32 days.
Connor is currently receiving treatment, which will continue for two more years. While the hospital may not be the most convenient option for Connor’s care, his family knows it’s the best place for him.
“Every encounter, whether it be with the medical team, therapists, hospitality staff or even food services, has left us feeling cared for and supported,” Sarah says. “Connor isn’t just a patient, but the patient.” Connor himself says, “This is a place no one wants to be, but it’s the best place to be when you need it.”
Despite the challenges he continues to face, Connor remains resilient, funny and kind. He loves making his family smile and building miniature engines and tractors from LEGO. This holiday season, he is looking forward to baking Christmas cookies and celebrating with his family. When you give to Light Up the Lawn, Light Up a Life, you support life-changing cancer care for patients like Connor.
