My Son Aden's Fight Against Childhood Leukemia: A Story of Hope and Advocacy

2011 The start of cancer treatment

Introduction:

Meet Aden, a brave fighter who was diagnosed with infantile Leukemia at the tender age of 6 months. Despite facing daunting odds and undergoing two years of grueling chemotherapy treatment, Aden emerged victorious and is now thriving as a cancer-free- Twelve-year-old. His journey sheds light on the challenges faced by children battling cancer and the urgent need for increased funding and awareness in pediatric oncology research.

Aden's Story:

At just six months old, Aden's life took a drastic turn when he was diagnosed with infantile Leukemia. The prognosis was bleak, with doctors at Primary Children’s Hospital giving him less than a 40% chance of survival and a 70% chance of relapse. However, Aden and his family refused to give up hope.

For two years, Aden endured relentless rounds of harsh chemotherapy, fighting for his life every step of the way. Despite the immense challenges, his resilience and determination never wavered. And finally, after years of courageous battle, Aden emerged victorious, declared cancer-free, and ready to embrace life to the fullest.

The Reality of Childhood Cancer: Aden's story is not an isolated one. Every day, 43 children like him are diagnosed with cancer, and tragically, seven children lose their lives to this devastating disease. Childhood cancer remains the number one killer among children by disease, yet research funding pales in comparison to other forms of cancer.

Shockingly, childhood cancer research receives less than 4% of a $3 billion cancer research budget. This staggering lack of funding means that only three new cancer treatments have been developed for children in the past 20+ years. With over 16 types of childhood cancers and more than 100 subtypes, each requiring unique treatment approaches, the need for increased research and funding has never been more critical.

A Call to Action:

Aden's journey has inspired his family to become passionate advocates for childhood cancer awareness and funding. They refuse to let other children and families face the same challenges alone. Through their tireless efforts, they strive to give a voice to those who cannot speak for themselves, to support children currently battling cancer, and to honor those who have lost their lives to this dreadful disease.

Join the Fight: You can make a difference in the lives of children like Aden. By raising awareness, supporting research initiatives, and advocating for increased funding, we can ensure that every child facing cancer has access to life-saving treatments and the hope for a brighter future. Together, we can turn the tide against childhood cancer and give every child the chance to thrive. Join us in the fight today.  . 

12 years old, 10 years out of treatment

FACTS:

*Childhood Cancer Research funding receives less than 4% of a 3 billion dollar cancer research budget, that is for 16 types of childhood cancers and over 100 subtypes that all need to be treated differently.*

*43 children are diagnosed daily with childhood cancer

*7 children die daily from Childhood Cancer.

*1 in every 285 children will be diagnosed with cancer,

*There have only been 3 new cancer treatments developed for children in the last 20+ years

Giving Voice to the Voiceless

Every child deserves to be heard, yet some face battles beyond their comprehension. For those diagnosed with cancer, their world is turned upside down in an instant. Through advocacy efforts, we strive to be their voice – to speak out for their needs, their rights, and their futures. By raising awareness, we shed light on the struggles they endure and rally support for their cause.

Childhood Cancer Organizations I support

Empowering Today, Protecting Tomorrow

As we fight for the children currently battling cancer, we also stand in defense of those yet to be diagnosed. By funding research, we pave the way for better treatments, earlier detection, and ultimately, a cure. Our efforts today not only alleviate suffering but also hold the promise of a brighter, cancer-free future for generations to come.

Honoring the Brave Souls Lost

For every child who bravely fought but lost their battle to cancer, we carry their memory in our hearts. Their courage, their spirit, and their resilience inspire us to press on in our mission. We honor their legacy by continuing the fight, ensuring that their lives were not lost in vain and that their stories serve as a beacon of hope for others.