Howie Mandel Reveals Grandson’s Brave Four-Year Battle with Childhood Leukemia

Comedian Howie Mandel has shared a private family struggle. His nine-year-old grandson, Axel, has been fighting leukemia for four years. The diagnosis came suddenly after a family trip to Hawaii.

Axel began intensive chemotherapy within a day of his diagnosis. According to Radar Online, the family has kept his condition private to protect him. Mandel confirmed his grandson’s leukemia is now in remission.

A Swift Diagnosis and an Immediate Fight for Life

Axel’s treatment started with incredible urgency. Doctors administered chemotherapy just 24 hours after confirming the leukemia. This swift action was crucial for his survival.

His older sister, Abbey, then became a key part of his recovery. She donated bone marrow to her brother in a transplant procedure. This family act was a lifeline during a terrifying time.

The treatments, while life-saving, have had severe side effects. Axel’s immune system was severely compromised by the process. He has been unable to attend school for years due to this risk.

The Ongoing Challenge of Recovery and Family Protection

Mandel explained that the battle is far from over. The focus now is on rebuilding Axel’s damaged immune system. The family remains cautiously optimistic as this slow process continues.

Daily life involves strict protective measures. Axel’s mother, Jackelyn Shultz, often wears a mask in public. This is to shield her son from potential infections she could bring home.

This precaution sometimes led to confusion during the pandemic. Guests on Mandel’s podcast would see Jackelyn masked and wonder why. The family prioritized Axel’s health above public perception.

Howie Mandel’s openness highlights the prolonged reality of a childhood leukemia battle, where remission is a major milestone, but recovery is a long road ahead for young survivors like his grandson.

Info at your fingertips

What type of leukemia does Howie Mandel’s grandson have?

The specific type has not been publicly disclosed. Reports from Radar Online confirm it is leukemia, a cancer of the blood cells. Axel was diagnosed four years ago at a very young age.

How is Axel Mandel’s health now?

His leukemia is currently in remission. However, he faces significant challenges from the treatment’s side effects. His immune system remains very weak, restricting normal activities.

Who donated bone marrow to Axel?

His 11-year-old sister, Abbey, was the bone marrow donor. This transplant was a critical part of his treatment plan. The family has shown tremendous strength throughout this process.

Why did the family keep the illness private?

They wanted to protect Axel’s privacy and health during an intense treatment period. Limiting public exposure also helped manage infection risks. It allowed them to focus entirely on his care.

Can Axel Mandel go to school?

No, he has been unable to attend school due to his compromised immune system. The risk of infection from other children is too high. His recovery involves rebuilding his body’s defenses.