Lydia was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) in May 2011, and she completed treatment in July 2013. Lydia is celebrating her ten-year end-of-treatment anniversary this year, and she thought a photo shoot would be a great way to remember the occasion!
Lydia was only two when she was diagnosed with leukemia. She was not able to verbalize that she did not feel good. She got fussy and always wanted to sit on Mom’s lap. Then she kept getting a fever. We finally took her to the doctor thinking she might have an ear infection, but her lab work showed otherwise.
During treatment, Lydia’s cancer diagnosis significantly changed our family life. Due to the risk of infection, travel and other activities outside of the home were limited. There were many visits to the oncology clinic for infusion treatments, emergency room visits if Lydia’s temperature exceeded a certain level, and inpatient hospital stays. Lydia’s twin sister and older brother also saw their normal routines disrupted during treatment. Throughout her treatment, Lydia inspired many others who have seen her spirit, courage, and perseverance. She was an example to us as parents, family, friends, neighbors, and even strangers about how to respond to adversity with a positive attitude.
In the last two years, Lydia has come to better understand and embrace what she has experienced, especially her cancer treatment and its long-term side effects. She has learned to advocate for herself and others. One outlet to inspire others is through her artwork, which allows her to promote awareness of children’s cancer. Lydia is an active participant in Children’s Cancer Connection activities, where she can share her experiences and help others. Lydia recently painted an Adirondack chair with scenes from Camp Heart Connection, which was auctioned off at the annual Children’s Cancer Connection fundraiser. She also has raised over $6,000 this year to support Camp Heart Connection through their Campership Challenge. In the future, Lydia would like to use her passion for art to help children in cancer treatment through art therapy.
Hope session by Amber Thorson Photography | Facebook | Instagram