Lealand is a brave and gentle little boy whose life has been defined not by playgrounds or bedtime stories, but by hospital rooms, treatments, and a battle no child should ever have to face. In September of last year, Lealand was diagnosed with Stage 4 High-Risk Neuroblastoma, a rare and aggressive childhood cancer that attacks the nervous system. Since that day, his life—and the lives of his family—have been forever changed.

Neuroblastoma is a disease that does not move quietly. It is relentless, unpredictable, and devastating, especially at such an advanced stage. Yet through countless procedures, treatments, and painful days, Lealand has shown extraordinary courage. His strength has become the anchor holding his family together as they face a journey filled with uncertainty, fear, and unwavering love.

A Long Road Marked by Hope and Heartbreak

From the beginning, Lealand’s doctors prepared his family for a difficult path. High-risk neuroblastoma requires aggressive treatment, and even then, outcomes are uncertain. Still, Lealand’s parents, Taryn and James, held tightly to hope. Every small victory mattered. Every good day felt like a miracle.

In April, that hope felt closer than ever. A scan revealed that Lealand’s tumors had shrunk. For the first time in months, the family allowed themselves to breathe. They imagined a future where Lealand could continue healing—where the worst might be behind them. It was a fragile but beautiful moment of relief, one that carried them through some of their darkest days.

When the World Came Crashing Down

That fragile hope shattered in June.

Taryn shared the devastating update no parent ever wants to speak aloud:
“Our world came crashing down today as we were told the tumor in his head has grown, and there is also a new spot as well.”

The cancer had not only returned—it had spread. Lealand was now facing four tumors, located in his brain, lungs, liver, and kidneys. For a child who had already endured so much, the news was crushing. The disease was advancing, and the fight had become even more urgent and uncertain.

No words can fully capture the pain of that moment. The shock. The grief. The helplessness of knowing your child is hurting while you stand powerless to take the pain away.

A Mother’s Heart Under an Impossible Weight

The emotional toll on Lealand’s parents is unimaginable. Watching your child suffer while knowing there are no guarantees—no clear answers—is a burden no parent should have to carry.

In a moment of raw honesty, Taryn expressed the depth of her pain:
“I feel hopeless for failing you knowing there is nothing I can do to take this away and guarantee that you will grow up to be happy, healthy, and safe.”

These words reflect a heartbreak that every parent fears—the instinct to protect your child, clashing with the reality that some battles are beyond your control. Yet even in her pain, Taryn’s love for Lealand shines through. It is fierce, unconditional, and unwavering.

An Impossible Decision No Family Should Face

As if the diagnosis itself were not enough, Lealand’s family now stands at a crossroads. Doctors have presented them with an agonizing decision: continue with the current treatment plan, which may no longer be effective, or pursue alternative treatments that could offer a miracle—or bring more uncertainty.

This is not a choice any parent should ever have to make. Each option carries risks, unknowns, and emotional weight that no words can ease. Every day, Taryn and James must find the strength to keep going, leaning on one another and on their love for Lealand as they navigate decisions that could shape his future.

Why We Are Asking for Prayers

This is where the power of community matters most.

Lealand and his family are asking for prayers, love, and support during this critical time. Prayer offers something medicine alone cannot—comfort, peace, and hope in moments when answers are scarce. It reminds families like Lealand’s that they are not alone, even when the road feels unbearably heavy.

We ask you to join us in lifting Lealand up in prayer:

• Pray for strength and courage as he continues his fight

• Pray for peace and comfort for Taryn and James as they carry an impossible burden

• Pray for wisdom and guidance for the doctors and medical team caring for Lealand

• And most of all, pray for a miracle—that the right treatment will work, that healing will come, and that Lealand will have the chance to live the life he deserves

The Power of Faith, Love, and Community

We have witnessed time and again how love, faith, and community can carry families through their darkest moments. A shared prayer. A message of encouragement. A simple act of kindness. These things matter more than we often realize.

Lealand’s story is still unfolding. While the future is uncertain, one truth remains constant: he is deeply loved. And with the support of others—near and far—his family can continue to find the strength to hope, even when hope feels fragile.

Standing With Lealand

Please keep Lealand and his family in your thoughts and prayers. Share his story to raise awareness. Speak his name in your prayers. Let his parents know they are not alone in this fight.

Every prayer is powerful. Every kind word matters. And together, we can surround this brave little warrior with the love, faith, and strength he needs as he continues his fight for life.

Thank you for being part of Lealand’s journey of courage, hope, and healing.