10/11/2025
Just hours ago, I received an update from Nichole Blevins, mother of 11-year-old Branson, who continues his brave fight against Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia.
The family traveled all the way to Rome, Italy, in hopes of a groundbreaking treatment. Heartbreak came when Branson was told he did not qualify for the initial therapy. Yet, in the shadow of that disappointment came a small but powerful victory.
Yesterday, Branson had his best day in weeks. He smiled. He ate — first a Happy Meal, then deviled eggs from his Maw Maw. For a boy who has barely touched food, this was nothing short of a triumph.
Even more, his favorite nurse from MD Anderson, Bailey, called on FaceTime. The joy on Branson’s face, Nichole said, was the biggest smile they had seen in weeks.
Now, the family enters the “donor evaluation” phase. Doctors are testing relatives to see if one of them can provide T-cells for a complex procedure that could one day bring Branson into remission. The road ahead is long — more chemo, more waiting, more moments where faith is tested.
But Nichole’s words carry strength: “We are trusting God every single step of the way… Sometimes hour by hour. Sometimes minute by minute. We’re holding tight to faith and claiming healing over our baby’s body in Jesus’ name.”
Yesterday was not a cure. But it was hope. And hope is enough to keep believing.
