Meet Luca James

Before his diagnosis, Luca was a joyful, spirited two-year-old, full of smiles and strong opinions. As a “pandemic baby,” he began daycare in the fall of 2021. That autumn, he started experiencing frequent ear infections and mysterious low-grade fevers. After a tough December involving multiple ER visits, doctors decided to place ear tubes and remove his adenoids in January 2022.

Sadly, a week after surgery, Luca’s condition worsened with unexplained fevers, bruises on his legs, and increasing lethargy. Desperate for answers, we returned to his pediatrician. Initial blood tests were so alarming that they were repeated, revealing critically low hemoglobin and platelets. We were rushed to Shawn Jenkins MUSC Children’s Hospital, where our world was shattered with the news that our precious boy had leukemia.

On January 26, 2022, Luca was diagnosed with B-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. He immediately started chemotherapy and underwent multiple blood and platelet transfusions. Those early days in the hospital were a terrifying whirlwind, but Luca’s incredible strength shone through. Even when his port needed replacing, his courage inspired everyone around him, earning him the nickname “Strongman Luca James.”
Despite his tender age, Luca’s bravery amazed his doctors and nurses. The prognosis was cautiously optimistic, but the road ahead would be long and grueling—a three-year marathon of treatments. With a baby on the way and Luca’s 11-year-old sister, Lucy, at home two hours away, the future seemed overwhelming.

Yet, in our darkest hours, our community rallied around us. Friends, family, and even strangers offered prayers, funds, and practical support like gas cards and meals. Their kindness gave us strength to endure.

The first year of treatment was a blur of hospital stays—over 75 days inpatient—and constant travel between Myrtle Beach and Charleston. Amidst it all, we welcomed Luca’s baby sister at MUSC Children’s Hospital.

In December 2022, Luca began the maintenance phase of his treatment. We are delighted to announce that Luca completed his treatment in Spring 2024! Our hearts are full of gratitude and a deep desire to give back. Inspired by Luca’s journey, we established the Strongman Luca James Foundation to support families facing childhood cancer in Horry and Georgetown counties. Our mission is to surround these families with love and financial aid, ensuring no one fights alone!