Jayden's wish to help other families

 

 

Jayden, our 11-year-old son, was recently diagnosed with ALCL (Anaplastic Large T Cell Lymphoma) – a type of Non – Hodgkin’s lymphoma. It is rare cancer that affects less than 200 people a year in the UK (10 children) and 100 children a year in Europe.

 

In an instant, Jayden’s life suddenly changed. From being fit and strong and training every day, he is now restricted to a single room for a minimum of five days at a time as he receives his chemotherapy treatment.

 

He is on a mission to prove that he won’t be beaten. He believes that when life deals you a hand, you simply fight on through it. Jayden knows that he has two options: fight the cancer or become a victim of it. He has chosen the former and we are not surprised. He always strives to succeed, even when he plays with his five years old brother, Ralph!

 

His motto is incredibly powerful, especially when considering his age: “I never lose, I either win or learn”.

 

“Why me, mummy?” Jayden asks on a bad day. “Life always tests the strongest, my boy!” I reply. We have a good cry and carry on with what has become our new life.

 

While fighting to beat cancer, Jayden has had to put on hold his participation in the Somerset County Cricket Club Pathway programme, his grading for a Taekwondo black belt, training with ITF England, playing for North Curry Youth Cricket Club, Galmington Dragons Football Club, and Taunton Eagles Under 11 rugby. In addition to this, he has had to suspend grading for Grade Five acoustic guitar, not to mention his academic and Scouting involvements. Yes, he does it all and has already achieved a lot for his age, but he is determined to win this battle - the biggest battle in his life without a doubt!

 

Whilst the future is uncertain, what we do know is that our oldest son will be having four further cycles of chemotherapy and battling its awful side effects. Throughout all of this, he is determined to raise money for the various charities that support families during this dreadful time.

 

We have identified a couple of charities that we would like to support -  Dexter'sodyssey and Make a Wish  but we are still looking for more. Any money raised will be appropriately distributed to the causes that have been of considerable help to us and families like ours. We will post the names of the charities when we have identified them all!

 We are also in discussion with the ward in Bristol Childrens Hospital, where Jayden is receiving his treatment, and looking into equipping a gym for parents and staff. 

 

We live in very uncertain and challenging times. Many people are affected by illness or just misfortune.

Don’t worry if you can’t donate a penny; please just share this post, and help us to raise awareness. Together we can achieve our goals!

 

You are all truly amazing, and we are forever grateful!

 

From the bottom of our hearts – THANK YOU!

 

Jayden, Irena, Boyd and Ralph