15th October 2020 was the day which changed our whole family’s life. Our youngest son Harvey was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia. Harvey began to feel unwell with fatigue, he was exhausted and was breathlessness. Harvey complained of pain in his joints and doing any minor movement was a struggle. He lost his appetite and was struggling to eat, he spent a lot of time in bed as he didn’t have the energy to go to school. Then Harvey woke up with a swollen face and a significantly large bruise on his side with no explanation, he was diagnosed with tonsillitis. A GP from Harvey’s surgery rang and requested to see him urgently. Harvey was seen by the GP who was concerned that he may have meningitis due to his presentation. He was blue lighted to James Cook hospital who carried out further tests, it was then we were told the devastating news; Harvey has Leukaemia. Our kind, caring gorgeous boy has cancer. Harvey was blue lighted to the RVI in Newcastle and has not left since. He continues to undergo various tests and treatments such as lumbar punctures, steroids and blood transfusions to ensure he is well. Harvey lost a significant amount of weight whilst In hospital so now has a feeding tube. Harvey has had a Hickman line inserted and has began intensive chemotherapy. We have been told that Harvey’s treatment will be a minimum of three years however will likely be longer due to the unpredictability of Acute Lymphoblastic Luekemia. Harvey continues to amaze us daily, with his ongoing smiles despite the gruelling and difficult treatment.
It is hoped that he will be well enough to return home for Christmas. Any funds donated will go to Harvey’s family to get the correct furniture he needs for returning home, such as a new bed etc and with the hope to make this Christmas a special one for Harvey. Any donations that are left over will be donated to the RVI due to all their care and support of Harvey and making his stay in hospital much easier.