Dylan Joe "DJ" Anda is a fun, loving, 4 year-old boy that loves to make you laugh and smile. His countless "funny faces," wit, and enthusiasm never go unnoticed. So when DJ's parents observed an apparent decline in his energy right before leaving for a family trip to Aruba, they knew something wasn't right and immediately contacted his pediatrician. The following day, August 19, 2015, DJ was diagnosed with B-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (B-ALL).
Needless to say, the family's life changed forever after the diagnosis. For the next 3 years, he will frequent hospital and at-home treatments, consisting of blood draws, lumbar punctures, and chemotherapy. Despite the regular trips to the hospital and roller coaster of side effects from his medications, DJ continues to stay strong and upbeat.
The unconditional support from his faith, family, friends, medical team and associations like Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, help foster the positivity in DJ. It's a joy to watch him regain his life as a "normal" 4-year old. Simple things like humming his own tune, building Legos, crashing his monster trucks, and running around playing tag bring a new appreciation for life.