Friday 4th February is World Cancer Day. Ironically, in 2022, this was the day our world changed literally overnight as we found out that our youngest child had developed childhood cancer. More specifically, our little boy was diagnosed with B-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia (ALL).
He started 2022 with Covid and just didn’t seem to get better. We now know that as he recovered from the virus, he was starting to display the classic symptoms of blood cancer.
His symptoms were extreme fatigue (one day he fell asleep in the garden at preschool in January), unexplained bruising, night sweats, constant infections and fevers, bone and joint pain and shortness of breath. Throughout January 2022 I called NHS111 twice, visited our GP twice, took him to our local urgent care centre once and visited A&E. The A&E visit was the final contact we had with the NHS prior to diagnosis.
The posts in this category are all about how we as a family are dealing with the news, the charities that have helped us, things we have learnt along the way and advice for parents who sadly find themselves following in our footsteps and people encountering childhood cancer such as friends and relatives.
Writing about it has been hugely beneficial to my mental health as it has given me a non-judgemental outlet for my feelings as I have come to terms with my son’s diagnosis. Needless to say, a childhood cancer diagnosis is a huge rollercoaster of emotions for the whole family, there’s so much to come to terms with.
Bristol Starlight Ward is a specialised oncology and haematology ward within Bristol Royal Hospital for Children. It’s part of the University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust. Starlight Ward typically takes patients from the South West region of England, including areas such as: However, it’s important to note that the ward may also […]
A Parent’s Guide To Bristol Starlight Ward Read More »
If you are reading this then the chances are that you know our story and how we got to relapse. For those who don’t, I’ll give you a quick recap. On 4th February 2022, my son was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia. He was 4 years old. What followed was just over two years of
Relapse – A Nightmare Come True Read More »
Have you ever dreamt of soaring through the skies with Peter Pan, greeting Mickey Mouse himself, or whizzing down a thrilling roller coaster? For our family, that dream became a reality thanks to the incredible Pied Piper Appeal and their Wish Holiday program. Over the May half-term, we embarked on an unforgettable adventure to Disneyland Paris, a trip made
Our Experience Of A Pied Piper Appeal Wish Holiday Read More »
As special events go, arguably the most special is when cancer patients reach the end of their treatment at which time it is traditional to have a bell-ringing ceremony. This involves the patient, their family members, friends, and medical staff gathering around a large bell. A special poem is read aloud and then the patient rings
How To Celebrate Ringing The End Of Treatment Bell Read More »
Hearing the word “cancer” can be frightening for anyone, but for children, it can be especially confusing and scary. They may pick up on subtle changes in the household or overhear worried conversations, leaving them with unanswered questions and anxieties. If you or someone close to your child has been diagnosed with cancer, it’s important
How To Talk To Children About A Cancer Diagnosis Read More »
Imagine holding the hand of a tiny superhero navigating a battle against cancer. You cheer their bravery, bandage their wounds, and fight alongside them with fierce love. But how do you take care of your own needs and fit in some self care during this difficult time? How do you help your child cope when
Top Self-Care Tips for Childhood Cancer Caregivers Read More »
The journey through childhood cancer treatment is a unique and often daunting one. This difficult period of time is filled with moments of immense worry, unwavering love, and unyielding hope, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed. This blog of famous quotes is here to offer a small source of strength, inspiration, and emotional support
71 Inspirational Quotes for Childhood Cancer Parents Read More »
Embracing the spirit of giving, the festive season presents a unique opportunity to spread joy, love, and support to those in need. In this season of giving, there’s a special way to extend a heartfelt gesture while contributing to a cause that truly makes a difference—Cancer Charity Christmas Cards. These cards are more than just
The Best Cancer Charity Christmas Cards For 2023 Read More »
In the delicate world of childhood, where innocence and wonder intertwine, the emergence of serious illness casts a shadow, challenging the very essence of youth. Among these daunting health battles, childhood leukaemia stands as a poignant and formidable adversary, disrupting the carefree existence of little ones and altering the lives of families forever. Leukaemia, a
Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia Stories Read More »
Leukaemia, also spelled leukemia, is a cancer of the white blood cells. White blood cells are part of the body’s immune system and help fight infection. In leukaemia, the bone marrow, the spongy tissue inside bones where blood cells are made, produces abnormal white blood cells. These abnormal cells crowd out healthy blood cells, which
What You Should Know About World Leukaemia Day Read More »
