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A Parent's Journey Through Childhood Cancer.

A Parent's Journey Through Childhood Cancer.

September Is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month!

Michelle Lim
September 11, 2023

Hello dear readers,

Today, we bring you an inspiring story of resilience, love, and unwavering support as we talk to Sallie James, a loving mother from New South Wales, Australia, who embarked on a challenging journey with her 8 year old son Harvey, who is battling childhood cancer.

Sallie and Harvey.

A Journey of Strength and Advocacy

Harvey was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia (High-risk, T-cell) at the tender age of 5. It was a diagnosis that would change their lives forever. In the midst of the shock and uncertainty, Sallie remained a pillar of strength, not just for herself but for her son as well. In the Intensive Care Unit, a nurse told her it was her role to advocate for Harvey and to speak up when needed. And so, the journey began.

One Day at a Time

Facing the most challenging of times, Sallie and Harvey took each day as it came. Sallie, always by her son's side, answered his questions honestly, preparing him for the treatments that lay ahead. She learned that there was no point worrying about things beyond their control.

The Heart-Wrenching Challenges

Among the heart-wrenching challenges was the emotional trauma, fueled by the steroids used in Harvey's treatment. Sallie vividly remembers the moment when, after his friend's passing and a small disappointment, her son uttered, "I wish I could go back in time when dinosaurs ruled the earth so I could be hit by a meteorite!" Witnessing her child articulate such despair was heart-wrenching.

The Beauty of Compassion

But within the tumult, there were also beautiful moments. The nurses and doctors who played with Harvey, making him laugh amidst the chaos. The local community back home, rallying around them, fundraising, and sending little gifts that warmed their hearts. The love from strangers was overwhelming and brought tears of gratitude.

The Strengthening of Bonds

Through it all, Sallie's bond with her son grew stronger. Harvey knew he could trust his mother, who was always honest and open with him. He understood that she was there for him, no matter what. Their closeness became an unbreakable lifeline.

Supporting Emotional Well-being

Parenting a child with cancer is emotionally overwhelming. Sallie found solace in connecting with other mothers on similar journeys, understanding that no one could comprehend this experience as they could. She chose moments to release her tears away from Harvey, always striving to be the strong pillar he needed.

Harvey and his younger sister Amelia.

Hope and Positivity

Hope and positivity were their guiding lights. Giving up was not an option, as they knew their attitudes directly impacted Harvey's journey. Every day was embraced as a blessing, and smiles remained contagious, transforming their perspective on life.

Sallie offers a simple yet powerful piece of advice: “Don't Google. Take each day as it comes, and remember, every day is a gift.”

A Message to Fellow Parents

In reflection, Sallie imparts some wisdom: accept the help being offered. Sometimes, it's okay to ask for assistance, even if pride stands in your way. Think of what you would do for a friend in the same situation.

Words of Encouragement

Harvey won't be deemed fully cured until November 2025, which will then mark five years since his diagnosis without any relapse. His case was categorized as high-risk due to the delayed onset of remission, even at the conclusion of the initial, intensive phase of treatment.

Currently, he continues to maintain remission, and as part of his ongoing care, Sallie schedules monthly appointments for blood tests and consultations with oncologists. These appointments encompass a comprehensive assessment of his overall health, including the examination of vital signs and, of course, specific assessments such as testicular health.

To all parents navigating the tumultuous journey of childhood cancer, Sallie shares this message: “Just breathe. You are more powerful than you realize.”

In Sallie and Harvey's story, we find strength, resilience, and the boundless capacity of a parent's love. We hope it serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration to all who read it.

You can follow their story at https://instagram.com/while_they_are_little

To conclude, here's a compilation of links and resources. They can aid you in either contributing/donating to childhood cancer research or accessing valuable information about it.