Cole had been experiencing uncomfortable, painful ear infections for almost six months, but as an avid water polo player and surfer, he didn’t think much of it. But one day, he became so dizzy and nauseous during a water polo game he was sent to the ER. A CT scan revealed there was a tumor growing behind 14-year-old Cole’s left temporal bone. He was immediately taken to Children’s Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA) by helicopter. The tumor, made up of acute myeloid leukemia, was pushing on his brain, causing his painful symptoms. Cole began four rounds of intensive chemotherapy. From his doctors and nurses to security guards and child life specialists, every team member supported him through his treatment. When Cole finished his last day of chemotherapy, he was relieved and excited to be on the other side. His last day at the hospital was especially memorable – the LA Kings hockey team was visiting patients at CHLA, and Cole got to snap a picture with the whole team. A year later, Cole is enjoying tenth grade and has built back his strength through swimming, beach volleyball, and pickleball.