In February 2021, William was diagnosed with Stage IV High Risk Neuroblastoma at 14 months old.  Neuroblastoma is a rare and aggressive cancer the forms from immature nerve cells and most often occurs in children under the age of 5. At  the time of diagnosis, Will had a large abdominal tumor and  metastases to his bones and bone barrow. Over the course of more than a year, he underwent an aggressive treatment plan that included high dose chemotherapy, proton radiation, major surgeries and immunotherapy.  Will earned his nickname  "Will the Warrior" showing us how to battle the disease with strength, courage and perseverance. Today Will is cancer free and thriving. He is currently enrolled in a neuroblastoma bivalent vaccine clinical trial at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center until May 2025. 

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Will's family formed the Will the Warrior Foundation (a registered 501c) in 2022 to raise awareness and funds for neuroblastoma research as well as support other families impacted by the disease.   Currently high risk neuroblastoma has a 65% relapse rate and 50% survival rate. Our hope is that with increased funding for research for more targeted and less toxic treatment options, the survival rates will continue to improve and one day a cure will be found.