Zoey's Story

Zoey was diagnosed in July 2019 at three years old with Pre-B Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL). 

 It was discovered because Zoey had a small cut on her lip that over 48 hours grew significantly in size, wouldn't properly clot, and a fever that was unable to be controlled with medicine. She was misdiagnosed with hand, foot, and mouth disease by two doctors, one urgent care and the other at an ER doctor. Her fever spiked to 105.7, and she was taken to yet another emergency room. The doctor there informed us that by looking at her, he knew she was misdiagnosed. The doctor took a biopsy of her lip and ran bloodwork. The bloodwork results would show it was Leukemia. The doctor had her emergency transported to Johns Hopkins Children's Center (JHCC). 

Once admitted to JHCC, she was in the PICU to stabilize her vitals. The doctors confirmed it was ALL. A few days later, the lip biopsy results would show it was MRSA. All the signs were present for ALL, but were easily dismissed due to age and other possible medical reasons.

Zoey spent 17 days in treatment, lost the ability to walk, went through months of physical and occupational therapy, chemo holds, transfusions, surgeries, etc. She has been in remission since late August/September 2019. After 802 days of active treatment, she was able to stop treatment in September 2021 and rang the bell in December 2021 to mark the occasion.

Zoey remembers treatment, but has never let it get her down. She reminds those around her of the importance of being there for each other. She did gymnastics for a while, but found her passion in softball. She is an avid softball player. She is a pitcher and also enjoys playing 2nd base. She can be seen on the field from March through October, and when not on the field, she is engaged in private lessons. She has enjoyed cruising and visiting other countries. She loves going to the Baltimore Orioles and Baltimore Ravens games (even though she is a Buffalo Bills fan). Zoey's biggest aspiration is to be able to attend the University of Tennessee and play softball for them while preparing to become a veterinarian.