My Story
Taryn’s Story
 |
Both my and my parents lives were changed forever in February 2005 when I was diagnosed with High Risk A.L.L. Leukemia. I was just entering the second semester of the eighth grade. I was confused and very scared when first given my diagnosis. I felt “This Can’t Be Happening To Me!” But it was, and thankfully there was CHEO and Candlelighters and others to support me and my family through that time. My treatment called for 2 ½ years of chemotherapy. The treatment did what it was intended to do to my cancer, but I experienced several bumps in the road along the way. I had severe issues with pain and nausea that kept me from attending school on a regular basis for most of my treatment. There were many times when I was in an isolation room at CHEO, and although those were very difficult times for me, I am thankful to Candlelighters for the loan of a laptop which enabled me to stay in touch with friends, and also which at home, helped me with some of my school work. It was a long road and Candlelighters was with us every step of the way. My family is so thankful for the parking passes, the books about my cancer, the occasional nights out to a hockey or football game, and the help with the occasional bill.
I am now 1 ½ yrs off treatment, and doing very well. Every year during Childhood Cancer Awareness Month (and the Terry Fox Run), I will continue to share my story with others to show the importance of cancer research and supporting programs like Candlelighters that help families of children given a diagnosis of cancer. Thank you for being there for me and my family.
Sincerely,
Taryn Baggott