Bondurant families gathered at Blank Children’s Hospital in Des Moines on August 15 to celebrate a remarkable milestone: Miles Ramsey, a three‑year‑old local boy, rang the hospital’s bell, signaling the completion of his chemotherapy for acute lymphoblastic leukemia.
Family’s journey through illness and disaster
Before his diagnosis, the Ramsey family faced a devastating tornado in 2018 that destroyed the second floor of their newly purchased home just weeks before their wedding. “Got hit by a tornado in 2018 and took the whole second level off,” recalled father Cody Ramsey, noting the lingering skylight scar on the roof.
Four years later, their son Miles was born. Shortly after his second birthday, Miles began showing concerning signs—bruising, fatigue, limping, and a rash of petechiae on his legs that indicated low blood counts. Mother Ali Ramsey, a nurse, recognized the warning signs and sought medical attention.
Diagnosis and intensive treatment
Doctors at Blank Children’s Hospital diagnosed Miles with acute lymphoblastic leukemia, the most common childhood cancer, according to pediatric hematologist Dr. Nick Fustino. “He got chemotherapy exclusively,” Dr. Fustino explained, adding that favorable prognostic factors guided the treatment plan.
The first six months were described as “pretty intense,” with Miles undergoing bone‑marrow biopsies, lumbar punctures, and multiple rounds of chemotherapy infused directly into his spinal fluid. Complications included seizures from medication, severe gastrointestinal sores, and a brief period of intubation.
Community support and resilience
Throughout the arduous two‑year fight, the Ramseys leaned on their faith, family, and the Bondurant community. “We don’t take a day for granted with what Miles has been through,” said Ali. The family’s perseverance echoed the broader community’s support for families battling serious illness.
In mid‑August, after more than 800 days of treatment, Miles rang the bell—a tradition that marks the end of chemotherapy for pediatric patients. “Today is a good day,” Dr. Fustino affirmed, noting that 95 percent of children with this form of leukemia are cured for life.
Looking ahead
Now cancer‑free, Miles continues to enjoy his favorite activities, from chasing his dad in a toy tractor to collecting Spider‑Man memorabilia. The family plans to attend the “Light the Night” fundraiser on Oct. 3 at DMACC in Ankeny, where Miles will be honored as a hero.
Blood Cancer United, a nonprofit dedicated to research and family support, praised the Ramseys’ courage and highlighted the importance of continued funding for pediatric cancer research.
For Bondurant residents, Miles’s story serves as a testament to the power of faith, family, and community in overcoming life‑threatening challenges.
Original reporting: WPBF West Palm Beach — read the source article.
