"Happy Hailey"
On November 29, 2006, Hailey was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL). The two weeks prior to that date we noticed a change in Hailey. She was limping, excessively tired and she began to bruise easily. We knew something was wrong with her, but when we brought her to the pediatrician that day, cancer never entered our minds. We were sent to the Emergency Room where they informed us something was seriously wrong with Hailey’s blood counts. They admitted her to the hospital for tests where the diagnosis was confirmed. The doctors informed us her treatment would be two years of chemotherapy with the first six to eight months being the most intense. The next six months were filled with bone marrow tests, lumbar punctures, blood transfusions, hair loss and numerous oral medications. The diagnosis was difficult for the entire family to say the least, but Hailey’s courage and strength along with many prayers helped see her through the rough times. Although her treatment will continue until February and concerns and issues still exist, Hailey is in remission, strong and full of life. We are thankful for the wonderful care she receives at Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital. Hailey began preschool in January and she happily participates in ballet, swim classes and soccer. Every time I watch her go to school, step on the dance floor or jump in the pool, it is truly a milestone and a blessing! As of February 12, 2009, Hailey has completed her treatment and the bone marrow test showed no evidence of leukemia. No more chemo and no more leukemia!! Thank God!
But just because her battle is over for now does not mean Hailey is done with cancer. Determined, Hailey and her family have remained in the fight against cancer only in a very different way. You see, during treatment a family friend sent Hailey postcards while he traveled around the world on business. He also shared her story with some friends, and soon postcards from all over the world began to come to Hailey. This small gesture created huge results. Hailey began looking forward to getting the postcards and mapping where they were coming from. The postcards took her focus off cancer treatments and on to something fun. As a result, Hailey and her family began
www.SendKidsTheWorld.com as a place where kids who are battling childhood cancer can post their stories, and people from all over the world can send these kids postcards.
We are so grateful for how Hailey's family has used Hailey's battle to bless so many other children battling this disease. Please take the time to visit the site and send a postcard to a child featured there. If you travel or have family members who live around the world, be sure to pick up postcards to share your travels with them. You can help Send Kids the World!