Hi, my name is Patricia and I am fundraising for my dear friend Stefanie Watson.

James cancer - Acute Myeloid leukaemia has returned for the sixth time.

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a rare and aggressive cancer that affects the bone marrow and blood. It occurs when bone marrow stem cells produce abnormal cells instead of healthy white blood cells. As the number of abnormal cells increases, the production of healthy blood cells and platelets decreases.

James was deemed “cancer free” December 2024. But a recent check up at BC. Children’s hospital revealed the cancer had returned. His bone marrow has grown to over 40% cancer at this time. James and his family have had to make quick decisions on the best possible treatment. They have decided a path which will eventually lead into a second transplant. James will have to remain in Vancouver at BC Children’s hospital until the treatment is complete. Doctors have said this treatment can take 9 months to a year before James will be able to be home again. His Mom, Stefanie will remain by his side while he’s receiving treatment.

The purpose of this Go Fund Me is to provide financial support to the family. Stefane is a single mom relying on her income to care for her children. She has a job that is supportive of her and allows her to take the time off she needs to care for James. But she does not have a permanent position yet so she does not have the benefits of SICK days or Vac days to use. So that means while she is off work caring for James she will not have an income.. This could be up to 9 months to a year as the Doctor predicted.

The journey is draining on the family in many ways. When caring for a sick child it doesn't end with Dr appointments, it is continuous care. The expenses of life add up when there is no money coming in. What stops Stefanie from working and providing for her family is the doctor appointments, trips to Vancouver, staying in Vancouver for treatment and caring for James during and after.

The money will go to help Stefanie pay her bills of rent, utilities, phone bill, food, gas etc . Stefanie also has another younger child, Grace, to care and provide for.

It is hard for Stefanie to ask for help but we hope there is a community around her who wants to help during this scary time for her, James and her daughter Grace. Every contribution, no matter how small, will help make a difference in their lives. Please share this page and help us support Stefanie, James and Grace during this difficult journey.

Thank you, and may God bless you.