Lucan’s parents first noticed something was wrong at the beginning of May 2020, as the COVID outbreak was quickly spreading across the US.

Three-year-old Lucan was feeling weak and lethargic after falling and fracturing his wrist. Lucan just wasn't acting himself and they had a feeling something else was going on.

A few days later, when Lucan started limping, his parent’s took him to his pediatrician to get some blood work completed. The results were abnormal but initial thoughts were that he was fighting some sort of infection.

When he started experiencing high fevers, Lucan's parents were advised to take him to the local Children’s Hospital Emergency Room immediately.

Lucan's blood was tested again and he was admitted to the hospital that night. The team decided a blood marrow biopsy would rule out anything major, so Lucan was wheeled way to complete the procedure as his parents anxiously awaited the results. Dr. M, who become his oncologist, confirmed his parents’ worst nightmare – blood cancer.

The very next day, Lucan had his port catheter placed in his chest and had his first round of chemotherapy.

Lucan's treatment journey lasted almost 3 years. There were good days and bad days depending on the medications he was taking. His parents took him to daily and weekly clinic appointments, and even learned to administer some of his IV medications at home. He did physiotherapy to help address mobility issues and began to lose his hair - all side effects from the intense chemotherapy.

Steroids were the most difficult medications for Lucan to take, as it changed his mood, appetite and appearance.

Lucan missed out on school and social events while he was in an immuno-compromised state. His family found it hard to watch him go through such a difficult time, but focused on the light at the end of the tunnel.

Lucan's family celebrated the one year anniversary of his diagnosis date. It was amazing to see him getting stronger by the day and kicking cancer's butt!

Another milestone! Lucan had his port catheter removed after completing almost three years of chemotherapy treatment. It was a day to be celebrated and his face was beaming after the surgery!

Butler High School in Matthews, NC raised $10,000 for Make-A-Wish so they could send Lucan to Disney World. The school threw Lucan a Disney Send Off Celebration, complete with all his favorite food, entertaining activities, a parade down the halls and an amazing pep rally.

Lucan had his “Ring the Bell” ceremony at St. Jude Affiliate Clinic in Charlotte, NC. This marked a significant milestone as Lucan, his family and his care team celebrated the end of his great fight against leukemia.

Lucan and his family made memories to last a life time on his Make-A-Wish trip to Disney World.

They stayed at the Give Kids the World Village, a nonprofit "storybook" resort in Florida. Since 1986, the Village has welcomed more than 188,000 families from around the world, and is made possible by the support of generous donors, community partners, and passionate volunteers.

Since 1995, every wish child that visits Give Kids the World Village receives a gold star to personalize and place on the ceilings of the Castle of Miracles and Star Tower. Lucan loved participating in this magical experience. His star, like the thousands of others, will stay there forever, a glittering symbol of all the childrens’ time at the Village and the light that shines within them.

Every 4 months, Lucan goes back to the St. Jude clinic to get routine bloodwork completed. His oncologist, Dr. M checks his report to detect any recurrence of blood cancer or late effects from the medications. Lucan is not considered a “survivor” of cancer until 5 years have passed from his last chemo treatment.

Another check up with our favorite oncologist, Dr. M! It has been almost 5 years since his initial diagnosis and Lucan is still happy to visit all the familiar faces at the clinic.

The Patels and some close friends explored the beautiful jungles and waterfalls of Manual Antonio National Park after winning a stay at a Costa Rican villa at a St Jude auction in 2024.