Dominic Clay: Our Honored Teammate

On August 22, 2007, shortly after his 3rd birthday, Dominic was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Surgery was scheduled the following day to place the central line medi-port in his chest which would allow the doctors to administer IV fluids and chemo directly to his main artery. The very next day Dominic began his 3-1/2 year chemotherapy treatment. The first 7 months of treatment were very tough on him. He received daily does of oral chemo, weekly lumbar punctures to administer chemo (similar to a spinal tap), and various cycles of steroids. After the first 7 intense months, Dominic shifted into the maintenance phase of treatment. While the maintenance portion of his treatment is somewhat less intense, it is still very aggressive and he still deals with some nasty side effects.
Throughout this challenge, Dominic has shown all of us his strength and resiliency in dealing with leukemia. He continues to inspire his family, friends, and supporters by always maintaining a positive attitude and letting us know what it truly means to be a survivor. His team of doctors, nurses, and specialists are amazed at his energy and enthusiasm during his visits and his genuine care and concern for everyone at Miami Children’s Hospital. We truly feel blessed to have Dominic as a part of our lives and have him as an honored teammate.
Today, 2 years after diagnosis, Dominic is by all outward appearances a normal, rambunctious 5 year old. We couldn’t be happier! His hobbies include various sports such as soccer, baseball and basketball. He loves riding his razor scooter and bike and is in the process of learning to ride his skateboard. He also loves anything to do with trains (model trains, Thomas the Tank Engine, train rides) and would probably consider his favorite place in the world to be the Gold Coast Railroad Museum down in South Miami. He is also a wonderful big brother to his two little sisters showing them nothing but love. Barring any major setbacks, Dominic’s treatment will end in November 2010.
Thanks for all of your support…go TEAM!!

The Clay Family
Michael & Genevieve
Dominic, Luciana, & Evelynn