Leukemia stricken Somerset boy with Down syndrome looking for cards and letters

You wouldn’t know it by seeing his smiling face, but a Somerset boy is having a rough go of it and he could use some help from the community so he can keep that smile.

Last month, 15-year-old Alex Silvia-Rogers, who has Down syndrome, was diagnosed with leukemia in April.

A boy who is used to being very active and playing outside all day, Alex has now been spending his days in a hospital room covered in machines since his treatment began at Boston Children’s Hospital. Treatment that has caused the ever smiling Alex severe pain. He has been able to sleep very little, if at all.

As of last week, Alex had 5 lumbar punctures, bone marrow testing and a pic line put in, yet he has never complained.

Despite the pain, Alex has kept his floor entertained and has even flexed for a nurse.

The diagnosis hasn’t only been difficult on Alex, but also his parents. Elizabeth never leaves his side while Cassie holds down the home front.

According to his parents, Alex loves mail and it really brightens his day. He also loves gaming and the famous actor Danny DeVito. His love for DeVito has led to people in Alex’s Army to try and get the star’s attention on social media so he can reach out to Alex.

While Alex’s parents know the situation is difficult, Elizabeth knows that sadly they are not alone.

“Please continue to pray for us. To pray for all families who are split apart and trying to navigate a new life. Trying to make sense of their worlds turned upside down. This floor is full. Parents share a common look. A haunting look in their eyes. Mothers who would do anything to spare their children. There is this silent language when we pass each other in the hallway. We look and understand the pain. If I could take this from him, I would. In a heartbeat, I would.”

Bracelets that Alex designed himself will be available soon to support his fight.

If you would like to send a card or letter to Alex, you can address it to:

Alex Silvia-Rogers
Unit 6 northeast room 6212
Boston Children’s Hospital,
300 Longwood Avenue,
Boston, MA 02115

If you would like to be part of Alex’s Army and keep up to date on his progress, click here.