Cole Zelwin Cause of Death: How a Rare Form of Leukemia Took Away an 11-Year-Old Boy’s Life

Cole Zelwin was a bright and talented fifth-grader who loved music, arts, and being kind to others. He played electric guitar and sang vocals as part of bands through his local School of Rock. He was also a passionate and selfless helper who never hesitated to assist anyone around him. He was wise beyond his years and could talk to any adult just as easily as one of his peers.

But on May 3, 2023, Cole’s life was cut short by a rare and aggressive form of leukemia that took him away just 48 hours after the initial diagnosis. His sudden and tragic death shocked and saddened his family, friends, and community, who remembered him as an amazing child with a bright future ahead of him.

What is Acute Myeloid Leukemia?

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow. It occurs when the bone marrow produces abnormal white blood cells called myeloblasts that do not mature into normal blood cells. These immature cells crowd out the normal blood cells, causing problems such as infections, bleeding, and anemia.

According to Mayo Clinic, AML is the most common type of acute leukemia in adults, but it can also occur in children. The exact cause of AML is unknown, but some factors that may increase the risk include exposure to radiation, chemicals, or certain drugs, genetic disorders, or previous cancer treatments.

The symptoms of AML may vary depending on the type and stage of the disease, but some common signs include fever, fatigue, weakness, pale skin, easy bruising or bleeding, frequent infections, shortness of breath, and bone pain.

How Did Cole Zelwin Get Diagnosed with AML?

Cole Zelwin was a healthy and active boy who showed no signs of illness until the weekend before his death. According to his father, Councilman Jeremy Zelwin, Cole started feeling tired and had a low-grade fever on Saturday, May 1. His parents thought he had a viral infection and gave him some medicine to ease his symptoms.

On Monday, May 2, Cole went to school as usual and even joined his father on the dais at the Solon City Council meeting that evening. He did not have anything to say at the meeting, but he smiled and waved at the audience.

The next day, however, Cole’s condition worsened. He developed a rash on his legs and arms, and his fever spiked to 104 degrees. His parents took him to the doctor, who ordered a blood test. The results showed that Cole had extremely low levels of platelets and red blood cells. The doctor told them to get him to the hospital immediately.

What Happened at the Hospital?

Cole was admitted to Rainbow Babies & Children’s Hospital on Tuesday afternoon. There, he was diagnosed with AML. His parents were shocked and devastated by the news. They had never heard of AML before and did not know how serious it was.

The doctors explained that Cole had a rare subtype of AML called acute megakaryoblastic leukemia (AMKL), which accounts for only about 5% of all pediatric AML cases. AMKL is characterized by the proliferation of abnormal megakaryoblasts, which are precursors of platelets. AMKL is often associated with genetic abnormalities or syndromes such as Down syndrome or Fanconi anemia.

Cole’s AMKL was very aggressive and had spread throughout his body. He had multiple organ failure and internal bleeding. The doctors tried to stabilize him with blood transfusions and chemotherapy, but it was too late. Cole passed away on Wednesday morning, just two days after his diagnosis.

How Did Cole’s Family and Community React to His Death?

Cole’s death left a huge void in his family and community. His parents, Jeremy and Courtney Zelwin, his sister Cailey, his grandparents, relatives, friends, teachers, classmates, coaches, bandmates, and neighbors were all heartbroken by his loss.

To honor Cole’s memory and his love for helping others, his parents started a foundation called The Cole Zelwin Memorial

Doms Desk

Leave a Comment