April 2024 Special Needs Living Magazine

Overcoming A Life Altering Diagnosis! The Story of Lucie Dillion

By Melissa Klatt With Photos By Michelle Herdlick

In the heart of Bolivar, nestled within the tight-knit community of Tusky Valley Elementary School, lives a spirited second-grader whose resilience shines brighter than any adversity she faces.

Meet Lucie Dillon, an eight-year-old with an infectious smile and a spirit that refuses to be dimmed, even in the face of life’s toughest challenges. Her journey, though marked by unexpected twists and daunting hurdles, is a testament to the unwavering power of love, determination, and the support of a community that rallies behind its own in times of need. From seemingly ordinary beginnings to a life-altering diagnosis, Lucie’s story is one of courage, strength, and the remarkable ability to find joy amidst the storm.

HER BEGINNING: FROM ANTICLIMACTIC TO LIFE-ALTERING

Lucie, the only girl among four brothers, had a love for video games and cherished her close relationship with her father. Her days were filled with laughter and sibling antics until January of 2023, when her story took an unexpected turn. What began as recurring low-grade fevers soon escalated into alarming symptoms of fatigue and loss of appetite. Concerned, her family sought answers, leading to a diagnosis that would change their lives forever.

Her mom, Maria Dillon, shares the beginning of Lucie’s story that took a heart-dropping turn:

“Starting in the beginning of January, we started to notice some unusual things going on with her, primarily with a recurring low-grade fever. As the days and weeks passed, her appetite continued to decrease and her energy also dwindled. By the end of January, we decided it was time to get to the bottom of whatever was going on with her. The next part of her story unfolded like a monsoon. After ruling out a UTI, I asked for bloodwork to rule out the scary stuff that many parents of kids with Down Syndrome fear... leukemia. As soon as the bloodwork results came back, I knew in the pit of my stomach that life was about to change for us. Our general practitioner called me personally to tell me that an oncologist at Akron Children’s Hospital had made time in her day to see us on Monday. We spent the weekend preparing our hearts and hospital bags for a journey into the world of pediatric cancer. Lucie was diagnosed with B-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia.”

BUILDING A STRONG SUPPORT NETWORK

Throughout her journey, Lucie was surrounded by an outpouring of love and support from her family, friends, and the tight-knit community of Bolivar. From heartfelt gestures to acts of kindness, their unwavering support became the cornerstone of Lucie’s resilience. Together, they formed a strong support network, offering comfort, encouragement, and hope during the darkest of days.

Additionally, her medical team has been incredibly strong as well, reflecting the same devotion and love in caring for her as her family, friends, and community have!

“Our medical team has been phenomenal at every turn,” says mom, Maria. “Every single interaction reminds me that they are invested in Lucie’s health and happiness. Not just their medical expertise, but their compassion, has been integral in our ability to conquer each day.”

EMBRACING THE JOURNEY AHEAD, LINKED ARM-INARM WITH LOVED ONES

As Lucie continues her battle with cancer, her spirit remains unbreakable, her resolve unwavering. With each passing day, she exemplifies courage, strength, and the power of resilience. And though her journey may be fraught with challenges, Lucie faces the future with optimism and determination, knowing that she is surrounded by a community that will stand by her side every step of the way.

“Let people love you,” Maria advises other parents who experience their own unique challenges. “Sometimes I think we alienate people to give the impression that we can handle the hard stuff on our own, and while we can, we can fall into the habit of feeling like we have to. We don’t have to. People genuinely want to help, and when you let them, they become invested in your child’s success and happiness. This will inevitably help to build your village. One thing I learned this year is that having a village is what helps a kid get over every hurdle put before them: even cancer.”

THE COMMUNITY OF BOLIVAR AND LUCIE’S INCREDIBLE FAMILY HAS SHOWN THE IMPORTANCE AND POWER OF SUPPORTING OUR LOVED ONES.

DON’T WAIT: REACH OUT TO YOUR COMMUNITY!

The community of Bolivar and Lucie’s incredible family has shown the importance and power of supporting our loved ones. For other special needs families out there, we’ve got some advice for you: don’t hesitate to ask for help! Your community’s involvement is the difference in the success or failure of your child overcoming their battles. Lucie Dillon is just one prime example of the incredible warrior you can become if you lean on your friends, family, and community for help.