Help Janelle’s cousin battle lymphoma ❤️

For those of you who don’t know me, my name is Janelle Bourque. I’m currently in my final year studying Nursing at Worcester State University. I am from Ashland, MA, where my brother, cousins, and I all went to and graduated from Ashland High School. Many of you may know one or more of my many relatives who are also from Ashland and surrounding towns. Family and their physical/mental well-being are things that I value dearly, as does my immediate and extended family.

Unfortunately, we were recently informed that my 12 year old cousin has been diagnosed with a rare form of childhood lymphoma, called Lymphocyte Predominant Hodgkin Lymphoma. This type of cancer affects the lymph system of the body, which directly affects the immune and inflammatory responses to infection and injury. The cells of the body that fight off infections are produced from the lymph tissue, which in his case is invaded by cancer. Consequently, these cells are defective/absent.

Although the treatment journey will be rigorous, we are extremely grateful that this cancer is almost always curable and is very responsive to treatment.

So far, since his diagnosis approximately one month ago, his family has already spent extensive time and money on testing and treatment. This has included numerous ultrasounds, lab work, MRIs, a PETscan, surgeries, prescription medications, chemotherapy, educational assistance, childcare for siblings, travel in and out of Boston, relocating to a new home where he can be comfortable and safe during treatment, and two hospital admissions.

In the next coming months, his treatment plan includes three rounds of intravenous chemotherapy through Dana Farber Institute in Boston. He is anticipated to undergo radiation therapy and further chemotherapy in the form of oral prescriptions afterwards as well.

At 12 years old, kids should be making friends, navigating their hobbies and passions, playing sports and developing teamwork and communication skills. With this diagnosis, his childhood experiences will now be forced to take the back burner for some time. His new priority is his health & safety. No child should have to face the chronic pain, discomfort, fatigue, and sickness that comes with cancer treatment, but we are confident in his strength.

Although I’m sure many are curious to know about my cousin, I am advocating for him by asking for your support and understanding in keeping his name anonymous. If you are already aware of him & this news, please continue to be mindful of his wish to keep the diagnosis a private matter. I personally cannot imagine being in his shoes, while also coping with the already confusing and challenging changes and social battles of middle school. School and time with friends should remain as a fun outlet for him, and should be an opportunity for him to cope with his diagnosis and treatment.

I can fully understand the initial hesitancy towards a near anonymous fundraiser. I decided to make this in hopes to bring them support greater than what we alone are able to provide as a family. Together, we can relieve some of the stress and exhaustion that comes with such financial and mental demands of childhood cancer.

Any form of support that you can contribute is a gift that he and his family are extremely grateful for, whether it is a donation, a share, or prayer. We will continue to pray for him and his family, as well as for his healing and peace along this long journey. Join us in having faith and hope that God will do work in his life!

If you have any questions or concerns, do not hesitate to reach out to me. If you feel inclined to communicate with my cousin or his family, you can do so through me. In an effort to relieve him and his family of any further stress and to respect my cousins wishes to keep this within the family, please refrain from reaching out to them & trust that I will relay the message.

Thank you so much for all of the support ❤️