By Fiona Heath | Supporter Engagement & Fundraising Manager
J was diagnosed with bilateral retinoblastoma (cancer in both eyes) in August 2013, aged only 3 months. So far he has undergone the removal of one eye and 6 cycles of chemotherapy. His treatment also requires laser and/or cryotherapy directly to tumours in his remaining eye.
During this time J's parents have had to make numerous and frequent visits to three different hospitals:
The Royal London Hospital for regular examinations under anaesthetic and any local treatment he requires. These visits will continue until he is approximately 5 years old.
Great Ormond Street Hospital for insertion of a central line that will deliver chemotherapy and also for treatment for any side effects this invasive but potentially sight and life saving will have on him
Harlow Hospital for admissions when unwell during chemotherapy and prosthetic appointments for his artificial eye.
Although J's parents are not in receipt of benefits, his mother was originally receiving maternity pay, which has ended. She will be returning to work on very reduced hours because of J's condition and the potential for ongoing unknown need for further treatment, as well as regular examinations under anaesthetic.
J's father has needed to use all of his annual leave and take unpaid leave for J's hospital appointments and stays. He has had to leave his salaried position and work on commission only due to the need for him to take time off work so frequently. This has had a significant impact on the family's financial position.
Through the generosity of its supporters and donors like yourself we are able to help ease the financial burden just a little for families with children undergoing treatment for cancer. We would like to do this every year a child is in treatment but we simply don't have the funds. Please help if you can. Thank you.
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