patient story
Paisley Lower
The little duck who could: Paisley's cancer journey brings joy to others
patient name: Paisley Lower
age: 2
seen in: hematology/oncology
providers: Dr. Rachael Courtney, Dr. Lionel Chow
Through the halls of the Dayton Children’s hematology and oncology unit waddles a determined toddler in soft, fuzzy, yellow duck shoes.
It’s Paisley Lower, and while she may be small, her spirit is big. Her determination and courage as she fights cancer, along with her love for ducks, have made her a favorite among the staff and an inspiration to her parents.
Paisley’s journey started before she even turned one. While the weekend of her first birthday should have been all about balloons, cake and presents, it ended with her showing signs that something might be wrong.
“She had these tiny pink spots on her skin and just seemed so tired,” recalls Paisley’s mom, Jessica. Jessica planned to bring it up at Paisley’s well-child check in a few days, but during Paisley’s birthday party, they realized she needed help more quickly.
“Paisley could barely keep her eyes open,” Jessica says. “That’s when I knew something was really wrong.”
They took Paisley to a local pediatric urgent care, who then sent them straight to Dayton Children’s emergency department. Once there, Paisley received blood tests and a spinal tap, where it was revealed that something serious was going on. She was quickly transferred to Dayton Children’s intensive care unit, and her care team suspected cancer.
“The doctors in Dayton Children’s ICU told us that kids Paisley’s age are often so resilient that they don’t really show signs or symptoms of cancer,” Jessica shared. “But if we hadn’t brought her in when we did, she might not have woken up. That was terrifying.”
With cancer suspected, Rachael Courtney, DO of the hematology/oncology team was entrusted to step in and become Paisley’s primary doctor. On April 29, days before she even had her first birthday on May 1, Paisley had a diagnosis: B-cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia.
“I remember when we first met with Dr. Courtney, she didn’t sugarcoat anything, but she told us that as long as we stuck together during this process, we would be okay,” Jessica shared. This exceptional care is what led Jessica to trust her precious Paisley at Dayton Children’s.
why Dayton Children's was the right place for Paisley
Paisley's first year after diagnosis meant more time in the hospital than at home. Jessica and her family considered other children's hospitals, but they knew Dayton Children’s was the right choice. Between the outstanding compassion and expertise of their care team and the comfort of being close to friends and family throughout this difficult time, the Lowers decided Dayton Children’s was where they needed to be.
“We just fell in love with the place and the people” Jessica says. “I can’t recommend Dayton Children’s enough; they really get to know you and show that they care.”
Paisley's treatment began with two days in the ICU for hydration and stabilization, followed by a move to the hematology/oncology unit. A hemorrhage behind one eye led to time in ophthalmology and wearing an eye patch to help it heal.
Now, Paisley visits monthly for chemotherapy, lumbar punctures, and other medical services, and she is currently on track to complete her treatments in October of 2026.
“Everyone made us feel welcome. I couldn't just name one or two people.” Jessica says. “Even now, when we come for outpatient visits, the staff lights up when they see Paisley. They comment on her hair growing back, and the excitement on their faces makes such a difference! If Paisley can face all of this with a smile, we can too, and the people here make that possible.”
making love and laughter part of the treatment plan
From the very start, Paisley’s care team focused not only on fighting her illness but also on making her feel safe, seen and even joyful.
Paisley’s love for ducks quickly became part of her care story. Her little yellow duck slippers were a signature and soon, people took notice of her love for ducks, bringing her things just to make her smile.
“During one stay, Dr. Courtney brought Paisley this giant, purple rubber duckie. And Dr. Dole will make duck noises that just make her laugh,” Jessica said. “The nurses even gave Paisley her own name badge because she loved badges during her stay. On it, it says she’s the ‘Queen of Finger Boops,’” Jessica remembers with a laugh.
Everyone is happy to try to make Paisley’s time in the hospital a positive memory, even though she’s very young. Jessica says things like that showed they see her as a person, not just a patient.
the little duck that spreads light
Jessica’s message to parents just starting this journey is simple:
“It gets better. There’s a light at the end of the road. And having the right people by your side makes all the difference.”
For Paisley, that light comes whenever she sees a little duck and the comfort of familiar faces. For Jessica, it’s the knowledge that her daughter is in the hands of experts who truly care for their whole family.
Paisley’s story shows the above-and-beyond care families can expect at Dayton Children’s from every member of our expert team. From testing and treatment to making every moment matter, we are here for every child.
