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Abby’s story and Reconciliation in child health

Abby’s Story

Over the years, we at Children’s Hospital Foundation of Manitoba have had the privilege of hearing from many families who have come through the doors of HSC Children’s Hospital. While every experience is different, their stories continue to remind us of the difference that care and research can make when a family is going through something they never expected.

For nine-year-old Abby and her family, it started with what they thought would be a straightforward trip to the hospital.

Shortly after her eighth birthday, Abby’s parents brought her to HSC Children’s with swollen tonsils. Tests revealed masses in her throat and abdomen, and Abby was diagnosed with Burkitt lymphoma, a fast-growing form of cancer. She needed to begin chemotherapy right away.

“As we moved through the treatments, we learned that there are many other worries, like how the long hospital stay would affect her mentally and socially,” her dad, Steve, says.

Abby’s experience offers a glimpse into the many ways childhood cancer can affect a child and their family. During Childhood Cancer Awareness Month this September, stories like hers can help deepen our understanding of what that experience can involve.

Throughout Abby’s treatment, her care team, including Child Life specialists, found opportunities for her to play and keep busy, including visits to the playroom.

Thanks to generous donors, the childhood cancer, blood disorders and transplants ward at HSC Children’s, known as CK5, is being revitalized to create a more welcoming environment for children who may spend days, weeks or even months receiving care there.

Research is also helping us better understand childhood cancers and how they can be treated.

“It means so much to us that research continues to find better and safer treatments with less adverse effects, meaning less trauma to children and their families and fewer stays in hospital, so kids can be at home with family and friends,” Steve says.

Today, Abby is back to enjoying the things she loves, including 10-pin bowling, watching the Winnipeg Sea Bears and spending time with her older brothers, Caleb and Levi.

Read more about Abby’s incredible story at Goodbear.ca/Abby.

 

Honouring National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

September 30 is National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, an important day to reflect and continue learning from the experiences and voices of Indigenous Peoples.

At Children’s Hospital Foundation of Manitoba, we’re committed to listening to Indigenous children, families and communities and supporting care that respects their cultures, traditions and ways of healing.

One way this work is moving forward is through the Indigenous Community Healing Space at HSC Children’s Hospital. Led and shaped by Indigenous voices, the space will help bring traditional ceremony, connection and cultural supports into the hospital for children and families.

There are many ways we can be there for children and families — through care and research, by coming together as a community, and by continuing to listen and learn. Together, we can continue to make a difference.

Learn more about the Indigenous Community Healing Space at Goodbear.ca/ReconciliationInChildHealth.