Hope: Definition (Noun) - A feeling of expectation, belief, anticipation and desire for a particular thing to happen.
January 2019 began as every parents’ worst nightmare....
Hope is an extraordinary 17-year-old young lady who had been suffering from extreme headaches and vomiting for approximately 6 weeks when she and her parents heard the life-changing words..."Hope, you have a brain tumour the size of a golf ball."
Within the chaos of days that followed, emergency surgery was carried out to remove the tumour, followed by immediate egg harvesting, extensive radiation and chemotherapy.
In October an MRI revealed Hope's cancer had spread beyond her brain and into her spine, causing heartbreaking devastation for Hope, her parents, Hope’s 2 younger siblings, Hannah and Isaac, and all the family and friends who love her so very dearly.
Everyday Hope continues to battle this ugly disease with her trademark radiant smile, a positive attitude and courage well beyond her years. Despite the pain, nausea, weight loss, hair loss, and all other horrendous symptoms associated with chemotherapy and radiation, Hope has never complained or asked the question "Why me?"
This diagnosis has come at a huge cost physically, emotionally, and financially. Any donations made will assist this beautiful family with treatments, therapies, transport, medication and other associated costs.
Hope is currently being cared for at home by her selfless mum Jo (a registered nurse), who has changed her employment status to casual to enable this to occur. Funds raised will hopefully assist Jo to continue to care for Hope in the comfort of her own home, as Hope requests. Alongside Jo, Hope's care team includes Hope's amazing Dad Steve, her best friend and sister Hannah, Hope's little ray of sunshine Isaac, super supportive grandparents, a wonderfully loving family (including those across the globe), beautiful friends and the palliative care team.
Thank you so much for taking the time to read this post. Your love, support and prayers are so appreciated. I will continue to post updates on Hope's journey. Lots of Love xoxox
Merry Xmas Jo, Steve, Hope, Hannah and Isaac!