Meet Keaton’s Kiddo – Kodiak

In the fall of 2023 Kodiak was diagnosed with two rare and aggressive forms of cancer: Mixed Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) and Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS) or ‘preleukemia.’ It all started this past fall when Kodiak was struck with a series of different seasonal illnesses. Kodiak’s mom Tonya shared “In September, he got COVID, and then in November it was the flu, and then December RSV.” She shared after a doctor’s appointment and a full panel of blood work, the doctor reached out and suggested taking him to the emergency room the next day. Tonya shared “We thought we were just gonna go in there and come out, but they ended up keeping us and started giving him blood transfusions right away. So far, he’s had Spider-Man blood, Batman blood, Hulk blood, Superman blood, and we just did Aquaman. We’re just gonna keep doing ‘superhero blood’ to make us strong. I told him God’s just putting us through a special strength training test, that’s how he understands it.”

Kodiak has been so resilient and strong during each treatment cycle which includes a month long hospital stay each time. Making the most out of his experience, Kodiak puts on talent shows, magic shows and has made many friends while in the hospital. After being referred to Keaton’s, Kodiak’s Family Navigator has had the privilege of meeting him at his local treatment facility to share our joy-filled Hope Chest, and gas cards to support with transportation. Tonya shared “Keaton’s has helped so much; our Family Navigator has supported us with any needs that have come up. We are so appreciative.”