In a recent post, Humans of New York (HONY) brilliantly captures the profound bond between a mother and her daughter, a brave cancer survivor who navigates life in a wheelchair. This touching image has struck a chord with many, showcasing the strength of their relationship amidst adversity.
The mother shares, “She has autonomy. She has a strong will. But she can’t move. So in many ways her life is my life. It’s bigger than me, it controls me, and it makes me fight like never before.” She continues, “We spend so much time together that she’s a part of me. She knows how important she is to me. She had childhood cancer. Her heart failed three times. And I was by her side the entire time. I never realized that I could love someone as much as this.”
This candid expression of the challenges faced while caring for a child with disabilities and the lingering effects of childhood cancer has resonated deeply with people online. Since its publication, the post has gone viral, racking up over 4,000 shares and more than 125,000 reactions.
Children who fight cancer exhibit remarkable resilience, and the parents supporting them deserve immense recognition for their unwavering courage. They often mask their own struggles to shield their children from fear. This mother-daughter duo embodies that spirit perfectly.
Last year, an estimated 10,380 children aged between birth and 14 were diagnosed with cancer. Despite a substantial budget of $5.21 billion from the National Cancer Institute in 2016, research into childhood cancers remains severely underfunded, with only 4% of its budget allocated to this pressing issue. The thought of not being able to provide a cure for these young fighters is heart-wrenching.
For those wishing to make a difference in the fight against childhood cancer, consider supporting organizations like St. Jude’s or Alex’s Lemonade Stand, which provide essential funding for research. If financial contributions are not possible, there are numerous ways to lend your time and talents. Local hospitals often seek volunteers to assist families undergoing pediatric treatments with meals or transportation. If you’re crafty, you might connect with groups like Kozy Kaps 4 Kids. Or, if you’re feeling particularly generous, donating your hair to create wigs for children in chemotherapy is a wonderful gesture.
Despite the hardships her daughter has faced, the mother speaks of her child’s grace and resilience, stating, “We always ask her: ‘Are you angry?’, ‘Are you mad?’ And she always says ‘no.’ She laughs when I laugh. And right now I’m trying not to cry. Because she’ll cry if I cry.”
For more information on parenting and the journey of motherhood, check out this insightful post on Cervical Insemination. If you’re looking to explore options for home insemination, Make A Mom offers reputable at-home insemination syringe kits. Additionally, for a deeper understanding of the process, this Wikipedia page is a valuable resource.
In summary, this heartwarming HONY post serves as a powerful reminder of the incredible bond between mothers and their children, especially those facing the trials of illness. It highlights the unwavering love and strength found in their journey, encouraging us all to support families battling childhood cancer.