As September rolls around, millions of children are gearing up for the new school year. However, it’s also National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, a time that brings to light the tragic realities faced by families affected by this disease. One mother’s poignant photo serves as a stark reminder of the precious moments that cancer steals away.
Emily Johnson recently lost her daughter, Mia, to acute lymphoblastic leukemia earlier this year. At just five years old, Mia never had the chance to experience the excitement of her first day of kindergarten. Emily shared her grief on her Facebook page, “Remembering Mia,” where she posted photos of Mia’s resting place, the school she would have attended, and their empty home.
Emily expressed, “The day after Labor Day signifies the unofficial start of fall, and here in our town, it’s also the first day of school. Mia should have been starting kindergarten today.” In an interview, she reflected on the void left by her daughter’s absence, saying, “There is a child missing.” She wanted to give people a glimpse into her reality, sharing that Mia was denied these milestones due to cancer. “There’s an entire school of kids who will never know her,” she added.
Emily reminisced about what should have been: “This morning, I should have dropped her off with a shiny new backpack, a cute outfit, and a bow in her hair. There should be a first-day photo of her beaming on our front porch, a classroom filled with excitement to learn about her, and a desk with her name on it.” Instead, she spent the day visiting Mia at the cemetery, aching for her little girl’s joyful presence. “This is what childhood cancer looks like. This is my reality.”
Mia’s experience with school was limited to just a few months of preschool before she passed. Emily poignantly noted, “She’ll always be my sunshine, but she deserved to be a star.”
Emily is committed to raising awareness about the dire state of childhood cancer research, which receives a mere four percent of federal funding directed at pediatric cancers. This October, it’s crucial to spotlight the struggles of families impacted by these devastating illnesses. With only two drugs approved for childhood cancer treatment by the FDA, and many chemotherapies over 25 years old, the situation is dire. Moms like Emily are determined to fight for change.
“I promised Mia I would make noise about this issue. If even one child is saved because of her story, I’ll know she’s proud of me,” Emily declared.
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In summary, Emily Johnson’s heartfelt reflection on her daughter Mia’s absence during the back-to-school season highlights the profound impact of childhood cancer on families. As we observe Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, it’s essential to advocate for increased funding and support for research that could save lives.