In the spring of 2014, four year old Elijah Bajema’s life changed forever when he was diagnosed with cancer. Elijah, who lives and plays with his family in Holt, Michigan, had a Wilms tumor, which is one of the most common forms of kidney cancer in children. On May 22, Elijah bravely underwent surgery to extract his tumor, which included the removal of his kidney and part of his diaphragm.
But Elijah is just like any normal boy. Throughout his treatments, Elijah kept his spirits high and demonstrated his lively personality by remaining dedicated to his passion: video gaming. During his stays at the Sparrow Children’s Center, Elijah became an Xbox enthusiast, but at home it’s safe to say that it’s all about his Play Station!
Throughout his cancer battle, Elijah has consistently displayed a champion-like attitude and a powerful will to conquer his illness. Thanks to his passion for video games and his positive attitude, Elijah was selected to be the Extra Life Champion for the mid-Michigan region. In September, Elijah joined other champions, like NCAA Final Four Champion Coach Tom Izzo, and 2014 Rose Bowl Champion Coach Mark Dantonio, at the annual Spartan Marching Band Concert for Kids, a fundraising event for pediatrics, to honor his journey.
No matter how large or small, gifts to the Sparrow Children’s Center, your local Children’s Miracle Network Hospital, contribute to the best care possible for when our littlest friends and Patients, just like Elijah, need us the most.