On June 8, 2021, we took Micah to the Emergency Room in Strathroy with vomiting and headaches. We were sent to the Children’s Hospital in London immediately, where Micah was diagnosed with a brain tumour. Micah was admitted that day and the plan for surgery was put into action immediately.
June 14 was his 10-hour surgery. A few days later, we discovered Micah was suffering from something called Posterior Fossa Syndrome. This happens in 25% of children after this type of surgery. Micah couldn't respond to us at all, except open his eyes. The next two or three weeks were really difficult, as we saw very little movement. He couldn’t wiggle his fingers, couldn’t swallow, he couldn’t talk, and just generally couldn’t respond to us at all. He was so frustrated and probably very confused.
We were very busy with the neurology team during this time, so the word “Cancer” did not come up much. It was a few weeks after surgery when I received a call from Renee from Childcan. This call was a huge turning point for me. She gave me hope! She understood exactly what we were going through, due to her personal experience. From that day on, I could breathe a little easier, and be the strong mother Micah needed me to be. She got us set up with a parking pass, which we still use today, meal vouchers, and a welcome bag. Thank you Childcan!
Micah spent 3 straight months in the hospital. During this time, he completed 7 weeks of radiation, and a lot of rehabilitation. By September he was able to sit up on his own, eat small amounts of ice cream and applesauce, and play with some toys on the floor, but he still wasn’t able to talk. This was a boy whose favourite pastime was talking. So, we knew this was really hard for him…and us.
We were able to bring him home on Labour Day weekend.
On September 8, we headed to Toronto for Micah to attend Holland-Bloorview Rehabilitation Hospital. During the drive there, Micah started to get very frustrated about something, we have now learned that he was trying to tell us what he wanted for his birthday. He was flailing in his booster seat, and then he started yelling. Next, he realized he could control the yelling. From that day on he slowly learned to control his voice, and by October we could understand what he was saying.
After a month in Toronto, we moved home! Micah started Chemotherapy in London on October 5. He celebrated his 6th birthday in the hospital on October 6. He got lots of attention, and I think he actually had a pretty good day. Chemotherapy was a challenging period. Micah completed 4 cycles. Every 3 weeks he was admitted for 4 days of treatment, and then ideally would be home for two weeks. However, we were in the hospital every week. Micah would get a fever, and then he would be admitted for a minimum of 48 hours. This usually ended up being 5 days.
Micah completed chemotherapy in December 2021. We felt extremely blessed to be able to celebrate Christmas at home all together.
Micah still continues with Speech Therapy, Physical Therapy, and Occupational Therapy today, but he has come so far.
About a year ago I was really struggling with Micah’s progress and not knowing where to turn. I decided to reach out to Childcan. Renee drove out of the city and met me at Tim Horton’s for a long chat. This really helped me emotionally, and we were able to put a plan together. She gave me the strength, confidence and resources I needed to move forward. Thank you for everything you do!
Childcan continues to support us today. We still use the parking pass to go to the many appointments at the hospital. Our family enjoys making wonderful memories at the many events put on by Childcan. Micah was just talking about Kustermans yesterday and can’t wait for the warm weather.
Thank you Childcan for everything you do!
Thank you Ashley, for sharing Micah’s story at the Childcan Polar Bear Dip in March 2024 and inspiring those present about why they fundraised so hard to participate, all to support families like yours. Micah’s story was also featured in the 2024 Report of Hope.
