Joey Sousa

Leukemia can affect anyone, at any age, often presenting in ways that are difficult to recognize. Sharing lived experiences helps increase awareness, understanding, and compassion for families navigating this diagnosis.

Joey is a remarkable 10-year-old boy known for his vibrant personality and love of life. A natural social butterfly, Joey enjoys reading, building with Legos, spending time with friends, and pursuing his passion for figure skating. In 2025, his dedication and talent earned him a place among the top 10 figure skaters under the age of nine in Quebec. He also participates in synchronized skating, proudly standing on the podium with his team on several occasions. His teammates and coaches are an important part of his world.

Earlier in 2025, Joey’s parents noticed a gradual decline in his energy. Initially, this was attributed to his demanding skating schedule. On May 10, however, Joey began experiencing significant leg pain that made walking difficult, along with severe stomach pain. He was unable to attend school or skate, raising concerns that something more serious might be occurring.

After multiple medical visits, Joey was hospitalized and initially diagnosed with gastritis. Despite ongoing follow-ups, medication, and extensive testing, his symptoms did not fully resolve. By early July, Joey felt well enough to return to the ice, but after two days of training, he developed intense pain in his hips and groin. Further testing revealed concerning changes in his bloodwork.

On July 11, Joey was referred to the hematology/oncology team at the Montreal Children’s Hospital. Following additional investigations, a bone marrow biopsy was performed on July 17. That evening, Joey was diagnosed with Pre-B Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL). He was admitted to hospital the same day due to a blood infection and spent the first 13 days of his treatment receiving inpatient care.

Throughout this difficult period, Joey and his family were supported by an extraordinary healthcare team. Nurses, social workers, and Child Life volunteers provided not only medical care, but emotional and practical support—offering reassurance, activities, and moments of normalcy during an overwhelming time. These efforts played a vital role in supporting both Joey and his parents as they began this journey.

Joey has since completed the blinatumomab phase of his treatment and is responding well. Blinatumomab is a targeted immunotherapy that helps the body’s immune system identify and destroy leukemia cells. While his treatment continues, this milestone represents meaningful progress.

Joey is preparing to return to school at the end of May, something he is greatly looking forward to. The support from his school community has been deeply impactful—teachers, students, and families have shown exceptional kindness, providing academic support for his siblings and ongoing encouragement for Joey. His family is immensely grateful for this compassion.

Although Joey still has a long road ahead, his determination remains strong. His story is one of resilience, community, and hope.

By sharing Joey’s experience, we aim to raise awareness of childhood leukemia, emphasize the importance of early medical attention, and recognize the incredible strength shown by children and families facing this disease. Together, through awareness and support, we can help ensure no family faces leukemia alone.