Gibbs' 2-year-old grandson has leukemia

The 2-year-old grandson of Washington Redskins coach Joe Gibbs has leukemia.

Taylor Gibbs was diagnosed almost three weeks ago and has started a three-year treatment plan that includes weekly rounds of chemotherapy. Taylor is the youngest son of J.D. Gibbs, who runs the NASCAR teams.

"It's been a real challenge for us," Gibbs said Wednesday during a press event for his NASCAR team. "You see a little guy like that _ we went down for those first surgeries and they put him out, and maybe it's good he's only 2 because I don't think he'll remember any of this.

"But it sure puts a different perspective on a lot of things."

The diagnosis shocked the entire family, and came after his parents took him to be examined for what they believed was nothing more serious than a cold.

"I think it was one of those things where he had some blood work and they sent him down to the hospital," J.D. Gibbs said. "And the next thing you know, he's in there a week."

Taylor was undergoing his third round of chemotherapy while Gibbs and his son were meeting with a large contingent of media to discuss the upcoming NASCAR season. Gibbs _ who is called "Coach" by his seven grandchildren _ nervously checked his watch several times, anticipating results from the latest round of tests.

"This one looks just like me," Gibbs said of Taylor. "I take him down the hall and I feel bad for him because they say, `Gosh, he looks just like you.'"

The Gibbs said they have been touched by the support they've received from the NASCAR community, including car owners Rick Hendrick and Ray Evernham. Hendrick won his own battle with leukemia, as did Evernham's son, Ray J., who was diagnosed with the disease as an infant.