Before his diagnosis, Luca was a joyful, spirited two-year-old—full of smiles, laughter, and strong opinions. As a “pandemic baby,” he started daycare in the fall of 2021. That autumn, he began experiencing frequent ear infections and unexplained low-grade fevers. After a difficult December with multiple ER visits, doctors placed ear tubes and removed his adenoids in January 2022.

Just a week after surgery, Luca’s condition worsened. He developed unexplained fevers, bruising on his legs, and growing lethargy. Desperate for answers, we returned to his pediatrician. The initial bloodwork was so alarming it had to be repeated—confirming critically low hemoglobin and platelets. Within hours, we were rushed to Shawn Jenkins MUSC Children’s Hospital, where our world was shattered: our precious boy had leukemia.

On January 26, 2022, Luca was diagnosed with B-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. He immediately began chemotherapy and received numerous blood and platelet transfusions. Those first days in the hospital were a terrifying whirlwind, but Luca’s incredible strength shone through. Even when his port needed replacing, he showed remarkable courage—earning the nickname “Strongman Luca James.”

Despite his young age, Luca’s bravery amazed his doctors and nurses. His prognosis was cautiously optimistic, but the journey ahead would be long and grueling—a three-year marathon of treatments. With a baby on the way and his big sister Lucy at home two hours away, life felt overwhelming.

In our darkest hours, our community rallied around us. Friends, family, and even strangers offered prayers, financial help, meals, and gas cards. Their generosity gave us the strength to keep moving forward.

Luca spent more than 75 days in the hospital during that first year. Amidst the challenges, we also welcomed his baby sister at MUSC Children’s Hospital—another reminder of hope and resilience.

In December 2022, Luca entered the maintenance phase of treatment. And in Spring 2024, he officially completed treatment! Today, Luca is thriving, and our hearts are overflowing with gratitude.

Inspired by his journey, we created the Strongman Luca James Foundation to walk alongside other families facing childhood cancer in Horry and Georgetown counties. Our mission is simple but powerful: to surround families with love, hope, and financial support—ensuring no one fights alone.