Held by Heroes: Jack’s Battle Against ALD

You were first introduced to Jack in January, on the Ottawa Police website’s Our Ottawa page, where his story was shared after a heartwarming reunion with Cst. Liu at CBC headquarters.

On a difficult night at CHEO, in October 2024, Jack lay still—too weak to move, his energy drained by the toll of adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD). His mom sat nearby, anxious and helpless. But everything changed in an instant when Jack spotted Cst. Liu in the hallway. Eyes wide with recognition, he lit up and, against all odds, pushed himself to his feet to meet what he called “a real-life superhero.”

In April this year, Jack’s parents found out what they knew they would eventually face. A recent MRI confirmed early brain damage caused by the rare genetic disease. Jack needed a stem cell transplant and quickly.

“We knew this was our goal, but we thought we'd have more time,” his mom said.

Timing was crucial. “This disease acts fast,” his mom explained. “The area where the brain damage showed would eventually result in Jack not being able to walk, to talk and even breathe on his own.”

But his team is hopeful early intervention will stop progression, giving Jack a chance to live a long life.

The family started planning their long-term trip to Toronto, closer to SickKids Hospital, where Jack would be admitted. “[His dad] will be traveling back and forth for work," mom said. "His sister will be moving in with [her grandmother].”

Jack’s mom started a Facebook page to build awareness around ALD. The Little Warrior: Jack's Story sees more and more people following his journey every day.

By the end of April, Jack’s mom shared important news on the page: “we have a donor!”

After a series of appointments — from neurology, cardiology and infectious disease to autism assessment — doctors confirmed a match for Jack and cleared him for transplant. But before heading to Toronto for treatment, he made one important stop: the Elgin Street police station.

There, Jack was greeted with high fives, big smiles, and encouragement. His family got to meet Chief Stubbs and the deputy chiefs, who presented Jack with a challenge coin.

“The Chief gave him a challenge coin, one specifically for bravery that not everyone gets,” explained Cst. Paddye Magill who had visited Jack’s home just before Christmas last year. “Then I took them on a tour of the station.” 

“This had such an impact on him,” his mom explained. When Jack does not want to take his medication because it tastes bad, he holds his coin and tells his mom: “I can do it because all the police officers said I am strong, and I am brave.”

Jack and his sister explored a police cruiser, and once again, their family was wrapped in the unwavering support of the officers Jack looks up to.

OPS has been present during Jack’s journey, and it all started thanks to one officer who took time out of his busy night to connect with the child last year. Now, Jack is a familiar, friendly face around the station, and he will be missed while he’s away facing this battle.

“Honestly, OPS has given Jack strength,” his mom shared. “But the impact you've all had on me is massive. I never expected so much love and support.”

Once in Toronto, Jack underwent surgery to insert a central line for medications, chemotherapy, and the transplant. He’ll remain there for several months, facing a long recovery and missing milestones like his first year of school and Halloween at home with his best friend and sister Tessa.

“He’s getting a little sick from the chemotherapy now,” his mother said. “But the nurses are all so great, he is playing and pushing through this as best as he can.”

Jack’s mom continues to share updates of his story — not only to raise awareness, but to show other families that early diagnosis and intervention can be life-saving.

“After Jack’s birth, we opted to have him part of a research study to help develop ways to detect ALD in babies,” she explained. “And now, this August, ALD will officially be part of newborn screening in Ontario, and we are just so grateful that Jack’s participation in this research will help save the lives of so many kids with early detection.”

With the support of their community, Jack and his family are facing the fight of their lives — and through it all, the Ottawa Police Service stands beside them every step of the way.

“OPS has changed my whole life,” Jack’s mom said. “I can’t thank you all enough for what you do for my kids.”