Cary 9-year-old bravely battles leukemia

It's been a little over a year since Brock was officially diagnosed with t-cell acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL), and like every other obstacle he has encountered, he has been incredibly brave, resilient, and tolerant of his treatments.

Within this time, Brock has had two bone marrow aspirates, 16 spinal taps with chemo injected into his spinal fluid, a PICC line, a port in his chest (to administer the chemo), seven blood transfusions, lost his hair twice, nearly 30 overnights at the hospital, and hundreds of doses of chemo and steroids.

Thankfully, Brock is responding well to his treatments, and now the treatment is to follow a regimented chemo/steroid treatment for the next couple of years.

Brock has a committed cheerleader in his 12-year-old sister Brooke. Brock and his family remain committed to ensuring he lives as many days as possible like a "normal" kid.

Last fall, he was the official water boy for his junior football team (who won their division Super Bowl). This year he has received the OK to play Little League and he's delighted to be back on the field with his friends and coaches. He's planning to play a little golf this summer, and when's he's not at the hospital, he's been at school or playing with his friends.

He has remained strong and courageous - but, best of all, Brock always has a smile on his face.