I signed up to “brave the shave” to honor an amazing pediatric cancer survivor and leukemia warrior. I had the privilege to meet and continue to be an extended “Auntie” to – Lea Jackson.
The journey this beautiful young lady went on – from ALL diagnosis at 3.5 years old to full remission at 6.5 is a mixture of heartbreak, unwavering faith, gratitude, and everything in between. As part of Lea’s journey, she did lose her trademark crown of curls, and embraced her bold bald appearance – and I know, if she can do it with confidence and a huge grin – so can I. Please join me, through your generous donations, in doing our part in helping combat pediatric cancer.
If you’d like to learn more about Lea’s journey from discovery to healing – please visit her caring bridge site: https://www.caringbridge.org/visit/victoriousleajackson
Lea’s story:
Lea’s family’s lives were turned upside down on Monday, November 30, 2020. Their precious warrior goddess, Lea, had not been feeling well for about a week, complaining of back, hip, and tummy pains; her walk also became a waddle and her stomach was significantly distended. Being the amazing child that she is, Lea didn't complain of pain often, but had begun waking throughout the night screaming, however was soothed with snuggles and easily went back to sleep. We had no way of knowing, prior to Monday afternoon, that this was all indicative of a serious health issue nor the pain that she had been enduring daily.
A Monday morning video doctor visit led to an urgent clinic visit which led to an ER admission. After labs, x-rays, and an ultrasound...we received the assessment and the resulting initial diagnosis - our baby girl was either experiencing leukemia or another oncology issue. This was a shock to us all and painful to learn, due to Covid restrictions, with only one parent in the ER and one on the phone... we weren't both able to hold each other nor Lea all together. Once we received this diagnosis, it was determined the best treatment for Lea, would be at Kaiser Roseville - Lea and I were transferred by ambulance, she thought it was pretty cool to be the first person in our family to travel that way. Daddy was waiting for us upon arrival and were and are grateful we've both been able to be with Lea.
On Tuesday, December 1, 2020, Lea received a bone marrow aspiration and after a grueling few hours of waiting, the original diagnosis was confirmed... Lea has leukemia. Just breathe...it does get better. She has the most common form of leukemia - ALL - and has a 95% cure rate. Her treatment will be intensive and extensive, include blood transfusions, more bone marrow procedures, and more to beat this cancer.
On Wednesday, December 2, 2020, Lea underwent surgery to have a port placed in her chest, had her first spinal tap, and first dose of chemotherapy. She came out of the procedure safely, and upon waking, was in good spirits. The yummy orange popsicle that greeted her also helped! Later in the day, Lea received a second dose of chemotherapy and handled it like a champ. She hasn't expressed being in pain, but over the last few days, does have sporadic and uncontrollable pain fits - it's the worst to witness knowing we are so helpless to take her pain away - we'd take it all away if we could. All we can do is love on her and try to comfort her as best we can, and as much as she'll allow.
