A Daunting Diagnosis
- Nine-month-old baby girl Orla Kearney has been in the hospital fighting retinoblastoma, cancer of the retina, ever since her parents noticed a “slight squint” in her eye and went to get her checked.
- Meanwhile, the family is staying positivekeeping busy encouraging their loved ones to donate blood to the NHS, who is helping to save the little girl’s life.
- Figuring out whether or not you haveor your child hascancer based on possible symptoms is critical because early detection may help with treatment and outcomes.
Scotland natives Thomas Kearney, 31, and Morgan Gillan, 21, were understandably devastated when they heard about their daughter’s diagnosis, but thankfully they acted quickly and did the right thing by taking her in.
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Rallying for Retinoblastoma
Meanwhile, the family is staying positivekeeping busy encouraging their loved ones to donate blood to the NHS, who is helping to save the little girl’s life.
"When Orla was diagnosed we were in shock. It all happened so quickly,” the baby’s grandmother Angela told the Daily Record. “She has spent more time in hospitals than at home recently. She has required platelet infusions, blood transfusions and antibiotics.”
Related: Warning Signs! The Top Ten Childhood Cancer Symptoms That Can Be Missed
Angela says her friends are always asking for updates on Orla’s prognosis, so she just keeps spreading the word about the blood donations as a means of support in other of the tiny cancer warrior.
The Benefit of Support Networks
"Ten of my friends and family said they would donate this week which is wonderful. We can donate again after 12 weeks and are committed to doing this long-term."
Although Orla has a long road ahead of her, she is getting the best of care and the family says they are optimistic that she will recover.
Advocating for Your Child
Here at SurvivorNet, we always encourage people to advocate for themselves when it comes to cancer and, more generally, health care. When it comes to a child, the parent must become the advocate.
And even if you're called “pushy” or people dismiss the concerns you have for your child, it's important to remember that you never know when speaking up about a seemingly unproblematic issue can lead to a very important diagnosis cancer or otherwise.
The Impact of a Childhood Cancer Diagnosis on the Whole Family
Figuring out whether or not you have or your child has cancer based on possible symptoms is critical because early detection may help with treatment and outcomes.
Seeking multiple opinions is one way make sure you are or your child is getting the proper care and attention. You should also try to remember that not all doctors are in agreement. Recommendations for further testing or treatment options can vary, and sometimes it's essential to talk with multiple medical professionals.
Learn more about SurvivorNet's rigorous medical review process.
