Sickle Cell Ambassador LJ Oliver Jr. of Milford thanks supporters

Sickle Cell Ambassador Larry D. "LJ" Oliver Jr. and his Young Heroes team thank all who supported him with the Young Heroes Car Parade fundraiser Sept. 26.

Ambassador LJ’s team raised over $2,000  from family, friends and professional organizations that support and believe in the sickle cell cause. Moreover, he would like to thank the Nemours Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders and Rose Bevilacqua for the opportunity to represent the organization and advocate for other youth diagnosed with sickle cell anemia.

Ambassador LJ's motto for others experiencing the disease is, “Do your best! Don't give up! Be loved, and love back!” He looks forward to continued support and another successful event next year. He said thank you all for prayers and encouragement.

LJ was born June 4, 2013, to Larry D. Oliver Sr. and  Ashley L. Knight, and was diagnosed with sickle cell anemia at birth.

At the age of 7, he has endured physical, emotional and mental pain from the disease. Before his first birthday, LJ had symptoms of pain in his abdomen, constant crying, stress and labored breathing. He has undergone medical treatments at Milford Memorial Hospital, A.I. duPont and the Pediatric Adolescent Center in Milford.

A phenomenal young man, LJ is well spoken, community service-oriented, determined, driven and active with his treatment. LJ enjoys basketball, baseball, football, soccer, collecting Pokémon cards and Beyblades, and playing with his dog Chloe.