Inspirational Stories

Brian Shaw (a.k.a. “Little Man”) is an energetic, happy, intelligent and compassionate six-year-old boy. For nearly a year, starting when he was four, several of those characteristics seemed submerged beneath the side effects of daily chemotherapy that followed his diagnosis with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Though his treatments continue (3-1/2 years in total), the side effects have alleviated somewhat and Brian is getting back to his normal self, attending school, etc.

Little Man enjoys painting, participating in just about anything competitive (especially if he wins), laughing, and having fun. He spends most of his free time playing with his best friend and big sister Jayda.

Since his diagnosis, Little Man’s family has rallied to support his treatment, caregivers, and the broader mission of finding cures for blood cancers by trying to live a philosophy of “turning bad luck into something good.” The family actively works to support The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society by raising money and awareness through its Team In Training program. Little Man currently serves as the honored teammate for his local chapter team and as a source of pride and inspiration for his family.