Connor O'Neil

On May 20, 2021 Connor Douglas O’Neil was admitted to Oishei Children’s Hospital in Buffalo, New York for worsening headaches and vomiting. The following day Connor underwent brain surgery to remove a large cystic tumor in the back left side of his brain. After a successful surgery Connor was diagnosed with a rare form of malignant brain cancer called PNET (primitive neuroectodermal tumor). This tumor is very aggressive. It affects the brain, spine and cerebral fluid. Connor’s pathology was then sent to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee for a second opinion. It has been decided by all medical professionals involved, that Connor’s best course of care and treatment will be administered at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Connor will be undergoing the recommended daily treatment of Proton Radiation Therapy on his entire brain and spinal column for six weeks. His treatment will then be followed by a year of chemotherapy, all of which will take place on St. Jude’s medical campus. 

Connor O'Neil is a FIGHTER.  His competitive nature and grit is easily noticeable. He is determined and focused on everything that he does. Connor loves all sports. He is rarely seen with two feet on the ground or without a football in his hands. We have absolutely no doubt that he will tackle cancer even harder than he would his fiercest opponent. He is brave and he is strong, but there is also another side to Connor. He is a loving son, an adoring grandson, a caring cousin and the best big brother there ever was, to five year old Tanner. Connor is constantly protecting and guiding Tanner in everything they do. His love and adoration for his younger brother is clearly apparent, they are best friends. When morning comes, they are often found sleeping together in one another’s beds. They will miss each other dearly during this journey. 

Jill, Keith and Connor will be leaving for Memphis this Sunday morning on June 20th, to embark on their new journey. They will be housed and cared for by St. Jude.  Unfortunately due to COVID-19, no siblings are allowed to stay on campus. Thankfully, Jill and Keith have a wonderful family and support system behind them. To keep the family close, both Jill and Keith’s parents will be renting a house in the Memphis area and will be sharing the responsibilities of caring for Tanner. This home will also offer Jill and Keith a place of solace and relief outside of St. Jude. 
 
Thank you so much for all your prayers, love and support for our family. They are forever grateful. The road ahead may be long but it’s one they will not have to walk alone. Please follow them on the caring bridge for more updates on Connor, Jill, Keith and Tanner O’Neil. 
 
Love
The O'Neil/Eddie Family