Vivian's story of strength battling AML with support from the Al Copeland Foundation

When Vivian was just 1 year old, her parents began noticing signs that something wasn’t right. What started as concern quickly turned into a series of doctor visits, blood tests, and unanswered questions as they searched for answers about their daughter’s health. After weeks of uncertainty, they were referred to Manning Family Children’s, where their lives changed forever. On April 7, Vivian was diagnosed with high-risk acute myeloid leukemia (AML), an aggressive form of blood cancer that required immediate and intensive treatment.

In the days following her diagnosis, Vivian and her family were thrust into a world of hospital stays, medical procedures, and difficult decisions. Her treatment journey was long and challenging, involving six rounds of chemotherapy designed to combat the leukemia and prepare her body for the next critical step in her care. Despite her young age, Vivian showed remarkable courage and resilience through every treatment, procedure, and setback.

On August 21, Vivian underwent a lifesaving bone marrow transplant. While the transplant marked an important milestone, it was only the beginning of another difficult chapter. Following the procedure, Vivian spent months in the hospital recovering and closely monitored by her medical team. During that time, she faced numerous complications and spent time in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), where her family remained by her side through some of the most challenging moments of their lives. Each day brought new hurdles, but also new reasons to hope as Vivian continued fighting toward recovery.

Throughout this journey, the emotional and financial strain on Vivian’s family was significant. Long hospital stays, time away from work, and the constant demands of caring for a critically ill child created challenges that extended far beyond the hospital walls. During one of their most difficult periods, support from the Al Copeland Foundation helped ease some of that burden.

Vivian’s mom, Valerie, shares these words of appreciation for the Al Copeland Foundation:

“We appreciate the Al Copeland Foundation very much. When Vivian was in the ICU, they provided us with some financial assistance so that my husband could take off work and be there in the hospital with us during that time. We are very grateful for them in big ways.”

Support from programs like the Al Copeland Patient Assistance Fund provided more than financial relief—it gave Vivian’s family peace of mind during an incredibly stressful time. By helping with essential expenses, the fund allowed Valerie and her husband to focus their energy where it was needed most: supporting their daughter through treatment and recovery.

Today, Vivian is a thriving, energetic 3-year-old whose joyful spirit shines brightly. Her journey is a powerful testament to the strength of pediatric patients, the dedication of their families, and the impact of compassionate support during life’s most difficult moments. Vivian’s resilience continues to inspire everyone who meets her, and her story serves as a reminder of the hope that can emerge even in the face of extraordinary challenges.

To learn more about the Al Copeland Foundation Patient Assistance Fund, click here.

To learn more about the Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders, click here.