What started as a sore shoulder after playing basketball quickly turned into something no family could have prepared for.
Eli first began complaining about shoulder pain several weeks ago. At first, it seemed like the kind of injury any active 9-year-old might get from sports or roughhousing. Even after the discomfort started, he kept doing what he loved — playing basketball, staying active, and being his usual energetic self.
As the weeks went on, the pain continued to come and go. Around the third week, we took him to the doctor and were told to ice it, give him Tylenol and Motrin, and monitor it a little longer. For a while, it honestly seemed like things were improving. Eli was back on the court, laughing, playing, and acting like himself again.
Then everything changed.
On Sunday night, the pain suddenly came back stronger than ever. It continued getting worse throughout the night, and Eli was unable to sleep at all. By Monday morning, we knew something wasn’t right. We returned to his primary doctor, who immediately ordered blood work and an X-ray.
The blood work showed some concerning results, but the X-ray revealed something even more alarming — a broken humerus and a large abnormal area in his shoulder where part of the bone appeared to be missing or covered by a cloudy mass. Our doctor immediately sent us to the emergency room.
At the hospital, an orthopedic specialist ordered an MRI. After further testing, we received the devastating news that Eli has cancer. While we still do not know exactly what type, we do know the tumor is large and aggressive.
Since then, Eli has already undergone surgery and has begun chemotherapy. His treatment plan will span 28 weeks filled with hospital stays, appointments, travel, and challenges no child should ever have to face.
That’s why we’re coming together for Eli’s Warriors.
These shirts are more than just apparel — they’re a way to stand beside Eli and his family during the fight of their lives. Every purchase helps support meals, fuel for travel, medical-related expenses, and everyday needs while the family focuses on what matters most: helping Eli beat cancer.
Whether you purchase a shirt, donate, or simply keep Eli and his family in your prayers, every bit of support means the world.
Thank you for being part of Eli’s team. It’s game time — and Eli’s Warriors are ready to fight beside him.
Thank you all so much for the prayers, positive thoughts, meals, and financial support. Every bit of it means more than we can put into words. You are all such a blessing to our family.
— Ashley
