Mitchell Bertram

Mitchell felt pain in his hips on Saturday (2-10-18) and when he stood up he lost his vision. He called his Dad (Rick) and they went to Urgent Care the next morning. Only Mitchell can say what he thought or felt during this time. On Monday evening Rick received a phone call from the Urgent Care saying that they couldn't get a hold of Mitchell and needed to talk to him right away. Since Mitchell is an adult (19) they couldn't tell Rick what was wrong. 

When Mitchell called  he was told he has leukemia. He called Rick back and said "I have to be at Children's Hospital tomorrow at 9am they think I have leukemia."

On Tuesday (2-13-18) Mitch was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL). He was admitted to Minneapolis Children's Hospital on Thursday (2-15-18).  He immediately went to surgery where he had a  bone marrow biopsy, lumbar puncture, and a "port-a-cath" (a device to infuse chemo) implanted into his chest. The Doctors also administered chemo into his spine and brain circulation during this same procedure.

Mitchell has been brave and strong during this whole whirlwind of the unknown. We are so proud of him. Rick (Dad) said "if Mitchell is going to be tough than so am I."

Mitchell was immediately surrounded by his loved one's and family. Including his sister Amanda, nephew Miles, Grandma Marilyn and Grandpa Bob, his Mother Tracy and Lou, Uncle Jeff, and many more friends and family.

Mitchell's prognosis is excellent but his road to full recovery is long. Mitchell is setting the tone, he is shining, brave, and taking his treatments one day at a time. He is a very popular patient and many of his Nurses and Doctors have voiced what a pleasure it is to care for him.  

Everyone is so proud of Mitch and his resiliency and are confident that he will remain strong through this difficult battle ahead.

The Team at Children's are amazing! They have encouraged everyone to keep our lives as normal as possible. Feel free to reach out to Mitchell and play PS4 with him.

Finally, We are so grateful to all of our friends, family, and Mitchell's Healthcare Team who have shown us support and offered assistance during this shocking, scary, and difficult time.