Oakley was a bright three-year-old when life for him and his family changed forever. It began with him complaining of leg pain that wouldn't go away. His mom, Shayla, took him to the doctor in early 2023. After a few tests, things took a shocking turn as they were sent to a children’s hospital for more testing and bloodwork. That same day, the unexpected diagnosis arrived: leukemia.
"Our hearts dropped," Shayla recalls. Within days, Oakley had a bone marrow biopsy, spinal tap, port placement, his first chemotherapy, and a diagnosis of B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL).
Oakley bravely faced challenge after challenge during his treatment. He’s endured dozens of chemotherapy infusions and spinal taps, weeks in the hospital—sometimes during birthdays and holidays—and even a broken leg that left him afraid to walk.
“Through every poke, every spinal tap, every chemo drip, he showed nothing but courage, joy, and imagination,” Shayla shares.
Managing cancer care is a balancing act for parents like Oakley’s. Between sickness, treatment, schoolwork, insurance obstacles, and life, they’ve continued to show up. And through it all, Oakley just wants to be a kid, including going to school.
"We agonized over whether starting school would be the right decision," Shayla admits. But Oakley continues to live life with an unshakeable spirit and was able to enjoy kindergarten this past year—learning and laughing with friends.
Oakley’s community offered him strength, love, and support during his treatments and hospital stays. His family is committed to giving back to other patients, caregivers, and families, and they’re thankful Blood Cancer United provides a way to do just that. That’s why they’ve made Big Climb an annual tradition and climb for Team Mighty Oak.
"We’ve watched Oakley push through pain and fatigue, and still find time to laugh at silly jokes, race cars down the hallway, and sneak snacks he wasn’t supposed to have," Shayla shares. "He’s reminded us, over and over again, what true strength looks like."
Oakley has since reached a major milestone. In June 2025, he underwent his final spinal tap, had his last round of chemotherapy, and had his port removed. “It feels surreal," Shayla says. "That month was full of emotional moments, and while we’ll have regular follow-ups with our amazing oncology team, this marks the end of active treatment. Something we’ve dreamed about for so long."
Oakley's family is stepping into this next chapter with cautious optimism. And Oakley keeps pushing forward—as strong as the mighty oak of his name (and his Big Climb team). As Shayla reflects, “we hold onto the strength, the resilience, and the incredible spirit that carried him, and all of us, through.”
Oakley
B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL)
