Callie

In September 2021, after separating from their dad, I was adjusting to life as a single parent and finding my rhythm with the kids amidst the aftermath of a pandemic. During this time, I noticed Callie seemed unusually tired, taking frequent long naps and appearing pale. Considering it was the summer holidays and quite hot, I initially thought it was due to the heat or perhaps a virus. However, things took a turn when Callie's dad picked her up on a Friday and the next morning, on the 4th of September, he called to say Callie was still not well. She was only two years old at the time and refused to get out of bed, which was highly unusual. We decided to seek medical advice and called 111, who directed us to an out-of-hours GP. The GP conducted a thorough examination, found her vital signs normal, but suggested we go to A&E for further tests. As the day went on, I carried on with my daily routine. I was confident that Callie's fatigue might at worst be due to low iron levels, so I even went on a date! I wasn’t worried at all. However, around 10 pm that night, her dad called again, sounding serious. He informed me that something was wrong with Callie's blood and that further tests were being conducted. Just after midnight, a doctor called with devastating news – Callie had been diagnosed with leukaemia. The weight of those words was too much for me to comprehend in that moment.
Balancing the difficulties of bein a single parent and facing the reality of supporting my daughter and her sister through such a serious illness really took a toll. Those first days on the Piam Brown Ward seemed to blur together as we began Callie's treatment. The weight of it all felt overwhelming, especially the first few weeks waiting to hear what type of leukaemia she had and what treatment would look like. I knew I had to stay strong for Callie.
I found comfort in connecting with other parents going through similar struggles, sharing stories and offering each other comfort and understanding. The toughest days were when the side effects of treatment took their toll. She became my inspiration, my reason to keep pushing forward and fighting alongside her. I would hide in the hospital toilet to do all my crying.
As the months and years went by, Callie's treatment continued. We faced many complications and hospital stays but celebrated small victories along the way, like hitting maintenance and Callie starting school. Each milestone she reached was a reminder of Callie’s strength and our progress.
Since finishing treatment in November 2023, our lives have regained a sense of normalcy. Callie and her sister Marnie are thriving in school, participating in drama class and swimming now that Callie no longer has her Hickman line. My partner and I have also reconnected amidst the difficulties. The journey has been incredibly tough.
The support from friends, family, and the medical team has been invaluable. I’ve had to learn the importance of leaning on others and accepting help. While the fear of relapse lingers, I try to cherish every single moment with my children. I am always happy to be a listening ear and a shoulder to cry on for anyone going through similar struggles. Sharing our story, offering support, and being there for others has become a vital part of my healing process. If you would like to chat, please contact info@abbys-heroes.org and they will connect us.