Robot Could Help Walpole Boy Fighting Leukemia Come Back to School

WALPOLE, MA — As far as 10-year-old Philip Lippolis can remember, his battle with leukemia has been a regular part of his life. Diagnosed at the age of six, the young Walpole boy thought he was out of the woods when he received a clean bill of health in April, but only weeks later he learned that he was not out of the woods.

Now, unable to go to school, friends and family are hoping that Lippolis can attend school, even if he isn't there in person.

Katy Woodhams, on behalf of Patty Allen, has started a GoFundMe campaign to help Lippolis buy a VGo robot. Equipped with a video screen and a camera, the tall two-wheeled robot would be controlled remotely by Lippolis and allow him to go to Boyden Elementary School. The VGo allow him to see his classmates, and the school would be able to see him through the lens of a camera.

"We can’t think of anything more instrumental to Philip’s recovery than being able to spend part of every day with his friends," Woodhams wrote. "And how cool would it be for Philip to arrive at school as a robot every day?"

Lippolis was first diagnosed with leukemia in 2012. After four years of fighting and listening to his doctors, he thought he had won last April and had the port for chemo in his chest removed. The removal also meant that Lippolis could do what all young kids want to do and spend time with his friends. Twice a week, he was able to help his after school track tram, but one night he woke up with leg cramps that were attributed to growing pains. A few days later, he learned that that his cancer had returned.

The new battle has meant a life in near isolation for Lippolis. A few week ago, he was admitted into the hospital to prepare for a bone marrow transplant early next month, which will be followed by a long recovery period in the hospital and a year of isolation at home.

If Lippilis is able to obtain the robot, his recovery will be less lonely, with his 'return to school' is slated for mid-January. While challenging, those who know Lippolis know it would be foolish to bet against him.

"What are the odds that a child can beat cancer twice in one lifetime? We’re betting on Philip," Woodhams wrote.

To contribute to the Virtual Classroom Heals campaign, click here.

Click here to learn more about the VGo.

Image via GoFundMe