Emily was diagnosed with leukemia in February of 2019. Emily wasn’t feeling well, and we had a doctor’s appointment scheduled for that day. She just didn’t seem like herself but was only four at the time and couldn’t communicate how she was feeling. She finally told us that we had to go to the doctor now and that’s when we went to her appointment early.
Emily was in the hospital for almost 2 months. The cancer cells were blocking her airway, and she wasn’t able to breathe. We spent hours at the ER that night as they tried to stabilize her. The ER doctor was trying to get a breathing tube in, but it was difficult due to the location of the cancer. She finally flipped Emily on her stomach to remove the pressure from the and was able to get it in.
She was taken by ambulance to another hospital where she received treatment. She was put on a machine called ECMO and was sedated for a while. When that was all resolved she had to learn how to eat, walk, etc all over again due to not moving for a prolonged time. She didn’t talk until we got home, and the doctors couldn’t figure out why. She was on treatment for 2 and a half years (chemo, steroids, lumbar punctures). Throughout that time, she was in and out of the hospital.
Emily has some social issues and learning difficulties. She doesn’t remember much but my husband and I deal with the trauma/memories. We take nothing for granted. We celebrate small achievements and live each day to the fullest.
She always is happy and has a smile on her face even after everything she has been through. She goes now every three months for checkups. She has a doctor’s appointment and labs. It hurts her and she doesn’t like it but is brave every time.
Hope session by Moira Nolan Photography | Facebook | Instagram