THE “TOUCH” BARRIER: When Love Hurts
For pediatric cancer patients, particularly those undergoing aggressive radiation and chemotherapy for bone-related cancers, a phenomenon known as allodynia can occur. This is where the nervous system becomes so sensitized that things that shouldn’t be painful—like the brush of a blanket or the pressure of a hug—are interpreted by the brain as severe pain.
The Mother’s Solution
Will’s mother shared the devastating reality that she can no longer hold her son without causing him to wince or cry out. In a moment that has touched thousands online, she revealed the only way she can still physically connect with him:
-
The Gentle Stroke: She has found that the only spot Will can still tolerate being touched is a small area on the top of his head or a light stroke of his forehead.
-
The Purpose: By gently stroking his hair, she is able to signal her presence and her love without triggering the nerve-shattering pain that currently grips his legs and torso.
THE MEDICAL BATTLE: Why is the Pain So Severe?
While the family celebrates that the cancer in Will’s leg is “dead” (necrotic), the process of that tissue breaking down is causing significant complications:
-
Nerve Compression: As the necrotic tissue in his leg and the nodules in his lungs shift or create inflammatory swelling, they can press against major nerve pathways.
-
Radiation After-Effects: The “late-stage” effects of radiation can sometimes cause a temporary flare-up in nerve sensitivity just as the treatment ends.
-
The ICU Balance: While Will’s friend Brantley is making strides (now off the ventilator), Will’s battle has shifted entirely to “stabilization.” Doctors are currently adjusting his “pain cocktail” to find a balance where he can be conscious and communicative without being in agony.
HOW TO HELP: The “Will Power” Fund
The Roberts family is facing a 2026 that begins with mounting medical bills and the logistical nightmare of long-term hospital stays.
-
Prayer Chain: The family has asked for specific prayers for “Nerve Calming”—asking that Will’s nervous system would quiet down so he can once again feel the comfort of a hug.
-
Support: Financial contributions are being channeled through their verified crowdfunding pages to cover the “out-of-pocket” costs for specialized pain management consultants.
🚨 THE VIGIL CONTINUES.
Will is currently resting in a darkened room with “minimal stimulation” to help his nervous system reset. The hope is that by next week, the IV medications will have dulled the pain enough for him to begin gentle physical therapy.
You may also like
Leave a Reply