Alyssa thought her son Grayson’s trip to Ann Arbor’s C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital in August was for dehydration. However, an ultrasound revealed a mass in his kidneys, prompting an MRI in November. Eventually, he was diagnosed with Wilms’ tumor, a pediatric kidney cancer. She remembered thinking it couldn’t be true – her son had just finished playing flag football and looked fine. Grayson has been attending hospital appointments on Tuesdays and receiving regular blood tests, vital signs, and chemotherapy treatments.
Grayson has quickly developed a fighting spirit while facing his brave battle with cancer. At the tender age of five, he started treatment at C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital in Ann Arbor, Michigan, with a promising superhero outfit eagerly donned by him. Dr. Erin Hamanishi expressed her admiration for how Grayson handled the intensive treatments: “He’s kind of taking it all in stride, which is impressive for somebody his age.” His superhero runway collection includes spectacular outfits such as Iron Man and Black Panther. Although Grayson’s parents claim six unique costumes to be Grayson’s – Spiderman, Captain America, Batman, Incredible Hulk, and a few Marvel-inspired outfits – they want to show that cancer isn’t scary but instead promotes positivity and power through clothing. His family friend Rebecca Shrek initially gave the Spiderman suit to keep him strong during chemo days. However, it has inspired other children to look up to such heroes!
It was a heartwarming scene for his mother, Alyssa, who is immensely proud of her son’s ability to stay positive despite difficult circumstances. Grayson’s generosity makes her even prouder–he wishes his chemo friends were there with him during the celebration. Despite being in the middle of therapy and all it involves, Grayson is still concerned with making other kids happy by bringing them joy and entertainment. He stands out as an incredibly inspiring five-year-old!
Grayson, a student with Down syndrome, celebrated his first 100 days of school. His parents thanked everyone who had contributed to his success. Mauree VanHulle even dressed up as Supergirl in honor of the special day. She expressed happiness at having him back in school and watching as he colored, solved puzzles, and counted to 100. To commemorate the milestone, Grayson’s parents collected some of his work from the big day and framed it for him on the wall at home. It was a memorable experience that held precious moments for Grayson, his teachers, and his family- one that will last for years.
The American Cancer Society reports that the survival rate for Wilms’ tumor is an impressive 95%. From the statements of Grayson’s attending physicians, it appears to be true – they predict an “excellent outcome” for him. Grayson may be putting his faith in his recovery; according to his mother, Alyssa, he wears a superhero costume every Tuesday until he is healthy. The significance of Tuesday might have its roots in hope; it stands out from the other days of the week, granting us all a small reminder that recovery is within reach. Grayson and his family are in our thoughts during this difficult time.
