A Brave Fight Begins at Just Two Years Old

Meet Gino LeClair, a remarkable little boy whose courage shines brightly as he faces a daunting adversary: cancer. Diagnosed with pleuropulmonary blastoma at only two and a half years old, Gino’s journey is both heart-wrenching and inspiring.

Understanding Pleuropulmonary Blastoma

Pleuropulmonary blastoma is a rare and aggressive form of childhood cancer that affects the lungs and surrounding tissues, primarily in children under five. This cancer can invade the lungs, pleura, and even areas like the heart and diaphragm, making Gino’s diagnosis exceptionally rare and serious.

From Symptoms to Diagnosis

Gino’s battle began on December 1, 2024, when his parents, Brad LeClair and Ashley Germain, took him to Health Sciences North in Sudbury due to pneumonia-like symptoms. Tests revealed a collapsed lung, pneumonia, and a respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection. Initially thought to be an infected congenital pulmonary airway malformation, further evaluations soon led to alarming news.

The Heartbreaking Truth

After a series of complications and frantic trips back and forth, by January 14, Gino’s parents received the life-altering verdict: a biopsy confirmed cancer. Just as any parent would, they braced themselves for the tough journey ahead, filled with uncertainty but determined to fight for their son.

A Family United in Love and Strength

With Brad recently employed as a lab technologist and Ashley working as a business adviser, the couple had to make significant sacrifices. They took leave from work, aware that their focus had to be on Gino’s recovery and the financial strain that came with frequent trips to Toronto for treatment. To help alleviate the costs, they launched a GoFundMe campaign titled 'Baby Gino's Battle With Cancer,' which has garnered over $57,000 so far.

Hope and Resilience Amid Challenges

For five months, Gino and his family lived between Chelmsford and Toronto. With the support of Ronald McDonald House, they found comfort in a home-like environment near the hospital during his treatments. Gino’s major surgery on May 16 lasted nine hours, successfully removing sections of his lung. Against all odds, he was back on his feet just 48 hours later.

Continuing Combat Against Cancer

Today, Gino continues his chemotherapy, a regimen scheduled to conclude in October. Recently, he was honored at the Northern Ontario Families of Children with Cancer flag-raising event, solidifying his role as a beacon of hope and resilience for others fighting similar battles.

Join the Fight: Support Childhood Cancer Awareness

September serves as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, with various fundraising efforts underway, including the Heart of Gold Radiothon on September 19 in Espanola. Donations to support Northern Ontario Families of Children with Cancer can be made through their website, ensuring that vital programs and services continue to thrive for families in need.

Gino's Journey: An Ongoing Inspiration

As Gino bravely faces each day, his story reminds us of the strength of community and the power of hope. For those moved by Gino's journey, every bit of support counts—it fuels the fight against childhood cancer, ensuring that every child has a fighting chance.